Hubballi: Samagra Shikshana Karnataka (SSK) and the department of school education in Dharwad district are set to roll out a career guidance programme for high school students. The initiative will be implemented in 124 high schools across the district and is expected to benefit hundreds of students.The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) has prepared a career guidance handbook, with around 500 copies slated for distribution. Counsellors will be appointed at the block level to train students and help them identify their aptitude, suitable courses and career options through special guidance sessions.The programme aims to help students define career goals and make informed academic and vocational choices by enhancing self-awareness and enabling them to explore educational opportunities, career plans and employment pathways.Sureshgowda Patil, nodal officer and lecturer at DIET, Dharwad, told TOI that the handbook was prepared under the guidance of Principal and DDPI (Development) Basavaraj Nalatwad. He said the initiative is being continued under SSK during the 2026-27 academic year.Patil said the handbook has already been distributed and around 500 copies would reach students across the district. He added that career guidance units have been established at BRC offices in every taluk and counsellors would be assigned to each block for effective implementation. High school teachers are also being appointed as nodal officers in government schools to provide counselling and guidance to students.“This handbook serves as a beacon for students, helping them continue their education and pursue careers of their choice,” Patil said. He added that a dedicated career guidance cell has been established at DIET and would work towards supporting students. Competitive exam books for NEET, JEE and other entrance tests will also be distributed to PU students.Renuka Amalazari, assistant project coordinator of Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan, said SSK and DIET would conduct weekly training sessions to help students make informed career choices.Sridevi Laddimath, headmistress of Govt High School near RN Shetty Stadium in Dharwad, said the handbook would introduce students to various professions and career opportunities. She recalled that a similar programme conducted by professionals last year helped students successfully transition to the next level of education. She also noted that DIET, the India Literacy Project (ILP) and Samagra Shikshana Karnataka have partnered through multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to extend career guidance to thousands of government school students.
