International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

This study examines the role of school-based life skills education in enhancing 21st-century competencies and fostering adaptive behaviour among students. In an era marked by rapid social and technological change, academic knowledge alone is insufficient. Students must also develop essential competencies such as critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration, creativity, and emotional regulation. Life skills education provides a structured yet practical approach to cultivating these capabilities. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving two groups of students. The experimental group participated in a structured life skills training programme, while the control group continued with conventional classroom instruction. Data were gathered at two points—prior to and following the intervention—using standardized measures to assess both skill development and behavioural outcomes. Findings indicate that students exposed to life skills education demonstrated significant improvements across multiple domains. They exhibited enhanced problem-solving abilities, more effective teamwork, improved interpersonal communication, and greater emotional control. Additionally, these students showed increased self-confidence and more positive behavioural patterns in both academic and everyday contexts, alongside a noticeable decline in maladaptive behaviours. The study underscores the importance of integrating life skills education into mainstream school curricula. Such integration can contribute to the holistic development of students, equipping them with the confidence, responsibility, and resilience needed to navigate real-world challenges. Overall, life skills training emerges as a critical component in preparing students to meet the complex demands of the 21st century.

Shweta Dwivedi,"Strengthening 21st – Century Skills and Adaptive Behaviour through School- based Life Skills Education" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V9(3): Page(344-356) May-June 2026. ISSN: 2581-7175. www.ijsred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.