Space Requirements
Single CSL (600 sq ft minimum) for Classes VI to XII, or Dual CSL (two rooms of 400 sq ft each). Existing ATL/Makerspace labs may also qualify if they meet specifications.
Karkhana MakerspaceSchools & K-12 · CBSE CSL
Composite Skill Lab Setup for CBSE Schools.
The CBSE deadline is 22 August 2027. Karkhana Makerspace delivers a fully compliant Composite Skill Lab setup — equipment, curriculum, teacher training, and inspection-ready documentation.
- Mandate aligned
- CBSE
- Skill sectors
- 13
- 2023 Compliant
- NCF-SE
- Curriculum hours
- 110+
THE CBSE MANDATE
CBSE has made the Composite Skill Lab non-negotiable — and just sent a reminder to prove it.
On 23rd August 2024, CBSE issued Circular No. Skill-75/2024 mandating that every CBSE-affiliated school in India must establish a Composite Skill Lab setup. On 20th March 2026, CBSE issued a second circular — Skill-13/2026 — reconfirming the same mandate and the same deadline.
A Composite Skill Lab (CSL) is a flexible, multi-sector learning space where students from Classes VI to X receive hands-on skill education across multiple vocational domains — in a single, well-organised room. The lab covers all three 'forms of work' defined in NCF-SE 2023: work with life forms, work with machines and materials, and work in human services.
Infrastructure Requirements
What CBSE prescribes. What Karkhana delivers.
Civil, Electrical & Furniture
Heavy-duty working tables, teacher table, steel storage cupboards, display shelves, pegboards, and stackable stools. Complete electrical wiring and ventilation.
Safety Systems
Dedicated safety corner, CO₂ fire extinguisher, first aid box, PPE kits, sand buckets, and emergency stop provisions on all powered machines.
Display & Learning Environment
LED screen or projector, safety posters, student project display areas, motivational murals, and internet connectivity.
Skill Sectors Covered
13 skill sectors across all three forms of work.
Work with Life Forms
Agriculture & Gardening (hydroponics, soil testing, organic farming) and Food Production (processing, preservation, baking).
Work with Machines & Materials
Electronics & Mechatronics, Carpentry & Woodwork, Automotive, Apparel & Fashion, IT/ITeS, and AVGC & Media Content Creation.
Work in Human Services
Healthcare, Beauty & Wellness, Retail & E-Commerce, BFSI (Banking, Finance & Insurance), and Tourism & Hospitality.
Curriculum & AI Integration
110 hours per year. Three forms of work. One structured plan.
Middle Stage (Cl. VI–VIII)
1 project per form of work per grade (9 projects total). Hands-on project rotations across chosen sectors. Aligned to Kaushal Bodh NCERT books.
Secondary Stage (Cl. IX–X)
6 vocations (2 per form of work) over 2 years. Deepened skill modules with tools. Industry linkage facilitation for internship placements.
AI Integration
CBSE mandates AI infrastructure in every Composite Skill Lab. We provide 3–5 high-spec desktops or equivalent laptops integrated into your projects.
Budget Guide
What does a CBSE Composite Skill Lab cost?
CBSE's own guidelines estimate a basic CSL at ₹3–6 lakhs. A more comprehensive setup ranges higher. Tier options include Compliance Essentials (₹4–8 lakhs), Full Multi-Sector CSL (₹10–20 lakhs), and Flagship CSL + AI Hub (₹22–40 lakhs). We provide a detailed itemised quote after the initial site assessment.
Plan your lab
Two circulars. One deadline. Zero reason to wait.
CBSE has now told every affiliated school twice that the Composite Skill Lab is mandatory. The deadline is 22 August 2027. Tell us your school name, location, approximate available space, and CBSE affiliation number.