Considering the increasing popularity and development of technical education at various levels, the Department of Technical Education was bifurcated into two separate departments in December 1984, namely, Directorate of Technical Education and Directorate of Vocational Education and Training. The newly created Department of Vocational Education and Training is to control the training of artisans.

Before the bifurcation, the entire responsibility of conducting examinations in various technical courses at diploma and certificate level was vested in the Technical Examination Board at the State level. However, due to the increase in the number. strength of institutions, changes in the curriculum and introduction of additional courses and establishment of vocational education and training departments, it was found necessary to have a separate board for the examinations of certificate courses. Hence, the Maharashtra State Vocational Examination Board has been established since 1986. This Vocational Examination Board is generally functioning on the same pattern as the previous one. The Board conducts certificate level courses recognized by the Vocational Examination Board. 1. Implementing curricula for various professional courses and organizing examinations for such courses on behalf of the government and awarding award certificates to successful candidates. 2. Textbooks, reference books, audio-visual aids etc. To prepare and approve the list of syllabus prescribed therein, to approve the teachers to teach different subjects if they have the qualifications and experience. 3. To make various recommendations in the above matter and to appoint a study board if necessary and to assist in the work of the sub-committee board if necessary. Training courses need to be developed in various trades, which are not covered under the training scheme for craftsmen. Such courses will take into account local needs. The duration of this course ranges from 6 months to 2 years. The final examination is conducted by the Maharashtra State Vocational Board and successful candidates are awarded a trade certificate. These courses are mainly for school leavers and students who have low educational qualifications but can meet the local requirements of various professions. Students who complete this course will gain specific skills and will be eligible to start small scale industries with small capital investment, thus definitely encouraging entrepreneurship. Thus, successful candidates can get the benefit of employment in medium and small scale industries.   Maharashtra State Board of Vocational Education