The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UP Board) is facing significant delays in its initiative to introduce vocational education across more than 29,000 affiliated schools for the 2026-27 academic session. The program, designed to enhance skill development, self-reliance, and employability among students, is currently stalled due to unresolved eligibility criteria for instructors. Director of Secondary Education Mahendra Dev has advocated for the compulsory integration of vocational education in schools. However, UP Board secretary Bhagwati Singh noted that the necessary gazette notification to amend board regulations has not yet been published, meaning the existing system will remain in place for the current academic year. The state government had approved amendments on July 31, 2025, mandating vocational education for Classes 9 and 11, yet the proposal regarding instructor qualifications is still pending. Consequently, nearly 60,000 instructors have not been appointed, hindering the rollout of around 108 vocational courses, including those in aerospace and artificial intelligence. The initiative also includes a requirement for students to complete internships lasting at least 10 days in related industries.