ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF HOLISTIC EDUCATION ON LIFE SKILLS ACQUISITION

Abstract

Education plays a pivotal role in students' holistic development by nurturing cognitive, affective, psychomotor, social, and physical abilities while equipping them with essential life skills (Hooda, 2023). Recognizing this, NCERT has incorporated life skill education into curricula to foster crucial competencies like communication, collaboration, self-awareness, and conflict resolution. Research demonstrates that holistic education significantly enhances both academic performance and mental well-being, prompting educational bodies like CBSE and UGC to adopt comprehensive life skill programs. Such integrated approaches facilitate students' complete development, preparing them not just for academic success but also for life's challenges as responsible citizens. Internationally acclaimed models like Montessori and Reggio Emilia exemplify successful implementation of holistic education, emphasizing lifelong learning and skill development (Rasri et al., 2024). These methodologies demonstrate how holistic education naturally cultivates life skills through experiential learning and student-centered approaches.