Vocationalising English for Employability of Indian Graduates

This second edition investigates the Policy of Vocationalisation of First-Degree Education in India (1993), focusing on Functional English as a vocational subject. Introduced to address the mismatch between university education and labor market demands, vocational Functional English sought to equip graduates with the communication skills and competencies needed for academic progression and career success. Three decades later, the issues examined remain highly relevant. Globalization, digital transformation, and evolving employment patterns have reinforced the need for graduates who possess market-oriented skills and transferable competencies. In this context, vocationalisation continues to bridge the gap between higher education and the world of work. Published when the New Education Policy (NEP) 2024 emphasizes vocational training, experiential learning, employability, industry engagement, and lifelong learning, this edition demonstrates the continuing relevance of vocational Functional English. Drawing on program research, it offers valuable insights for educators, researchers, policymakers, and HR professionals.