Challenges in the Implementation of Aspirational Curriculum at the Secondary Level: A Critical Analysis Vis- A- Vis NCFSE (2023)
Author(s): Kiranmayee Kar
Authors Affiliations:
Department of Education, Central University of Odisha, Koraput Orissa, India
DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202604011 | Paper ID: IJIRMF202604011The concept of an aspirational curriculum has gained increasing prominence in contemporary educational reforms, particularly in the context of fostering holistic development, critical thinking, and future readiness among the secondary level students. However, the translation of aspirational curriculum frameworks from policy to classroom practice remains fraught with multiple challenges. This study critically examines the barriers to effective implementation of aspirational curriculum in secondary education. Using a mixed method research design, data were collected through questionary, interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis across selected secondary schools. The major findings reveal that systemic constraints such as inadequate teacher preparedness, limited professional development opportunities, and lack of contextualized teaching-learning resources significantly hinder implementation of aspirational curriculum at the secondary level. Additionally, rigid examination systems, infrastructural disparities, and administrative overload further restrict innovative pedagogical practices envisioned under the aspirational curriculum. Moreover, the study also highlights socio-cultural factors, including resistance to change and varying stakeholder expectations, as critical impediments. Despite these challenges, instances of adaptive strategies adopted by teachers demonstrate potential pathways for successful implementation. This paper argues for a multi-pronged approach involving capacity building, policy alignment, resource augmentation, and continuous support mechanisms to bridge the gap between curricular intent and classroom realities. Furthermore, the present study contributes to the discourse on different curriculum reform by providing actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers aiming to realize the transformative goals of aspirational curriculum at the secondary level.
Kiranmayee kar (2026); Challenges in the Implementation of Aspirational Curriculum at the Secondary Level: A Critical Analysis Vis- A- Vis NCFSE (2023), International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-12, Issue-4, Available on – https://www.ijirmf.com/
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