This paper examines the challenges and opportunities faced by colleges in Northeast India in advancing skill-oriented education and enhancing graduate employability. Drawing on the policy framework of the National Education Policy 2020, the study explores how higher education institutions in the region are responding to the increasing emphasis on vocational training, interdisciplinary learning, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship development. While the policy envisions a transformative role for colleges in preparing students for the evolving job market, the implementation of these initiatives varies significantly across institutions. The study identifies several challenges faced by colleges in the Northeastern states, including limited infrastructure, inadequate industry–academia collaboration, resource constraints, and geographical isolation from major economic centres. At the same time, the region presents significant opportunities for innovative educational practices, particularly in areas such as community-based learning, sustainable development, indigenous knowledge systems, and local entrepreneurship. By examining institutional practices and regional contexts, the paper highlights how colleges can leverage these opportunities to strengthen skill development initiatives and enhance employability outcomes.
Shruti et al. (Fri,) studied this question.