In a move signaling a paradigm shift in higher education, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved a set of guidelines designed to incorporate short-term skill development courses into higher educational institutes (HEIs). These guidelines, meticulously crafted in alignment with the New Education Policy (NEP), 2020, mark a significant leap toward a more practical and inclusive educational approach.
The main aim of these guidelines is to seamlessly integrate skill development across all levels of higher education. By introducing short-term, industry-relevant certificate courses in Higher Educational Institutes (HEIs), the UGC intends to narrow the existing skill gap and provide specialized education with a strong emphasis on practical training, allowing individuals to gain valuable hands-on experience.
Eligibility for admission to any undergraduate program at HEIs is extended to individuals who have successfully completed the 10+2/ senior secondary exam or its equivalent.
As per the draft guidelines, HEIs are expected to offer credit-linked short-term skill development certificate courses spanning 3-6 months. To structure these courses, a credit mechanism will be utilized, requiring each short-term course to have a minimum of 12 credits and a maximum of 30 credits. The guidelines also stress the importance of practical learning within these courses.
The UGC highlights that the maximum student intake for each short-term skill development course should not exceed 60 students per cohort. Additionally, HEIs are required to maintain a minimum faculty-student ratio of 1:30, or as applicable in the respective HEI.
The guidelines offer a diverse range of areas in which HEIs can consider offering short-term skill development courses. From advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and Robotics to areas such as Digital Marketing, Fashion Technology, and health and wellness, the courses aim to cover a broad spectrum of contemporary skills as reported by Indian Express.
Significantly, the UGC encourages HEIs to collaborate with relevant Sector Skill Councils/Awarding Bodies and industries to enhance the credibility of these courses. Such collaborations can provide students with access to placement opportunities, funding schemes, and up-to-date course content.
The guidelines also mandate that HEIs develop a plan to facilitate employment opportunities and internships for students successfully completing the short-term skill development courses.
The release of these guidelines represents a pivotal step toward aligning higher education with the dynamic demands of the professional landscape. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, these short-term courses promise to equip students with a competitive edge in the job market. The UGC’s emphasis on collaboration with industry bodies ensures that these courses remain relevant and beneficial for both students and employers alike. As these guidelines take root, they are poised to redefine the landscape of higher education in the country.
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