The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently hosted a Southern Zone Conference on the Implementation of NEP 2020 at IIT Madras. The event brought together academics and leaders from various educational institutions to discuss strategies for enacting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Key Highlights of the Conference
UGC Chairman Professor M Jagadesh Kumar emphasized the policy’s vision to create an education system that is accessible, inclusive, and equitable. He noted that empowering students with essential skills is crucial to preparing them for self-employment or the job market. “Access, equity, and inclusivity in higher education are essential determinants of how far our students will advance and excel in their professions,” he said, advocating for affordable and supportive education systems.
Discussions on NEP 2020 Implementation
Launched on July 28, 2020, NEP 2020 aims to revamp India’s educational landscape. The UGC is actively promoting its principles to various stakeholders and ensuring its successful implementation across Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs). The conference sessions included thematic discussions on:
- National Credit Framework Implementation
- Academic Bank of Credits
- Digital Empowerment
- Research and Innovation Ecosystem
- Enhancing Employability of Graduates
- Bhartiya Bhasha (Indian Languages)
- Internationalisation and Monitoring of NEP Implementation
Skill Development Through SWAYAM Plus
A major announcement from the conference was the UGC’s initiative to enhance employability through SWAYAM Plus, an online platform offering skill courses. Professor Kumar explained that students could pursue up to 50 per cent of the total credits required in a degree program through these courses. This move will support students in meeting both academic and career goals, allowing flexibility in their education paths.
Skill courses will cover various disciplines to help students gain practical, job-oriented competencies. With this approach, students in BA, BSc, and BCom programs can integrate skills training alongside their major studies, positioning them better for future career opportunities.
Promoting Indian Languages and Inclusivity
Professor Kumar also highlighted the importance of using Indian languages as a medium of instruction in higher education. This practice will foster inclusivity, especially for students from rural backgrounds. “Teaching in Indian languages will make education more inclusive. English can be learned as a communication tool, but primary education should be accessible in native languages,” he added, citing examples from other technologically advanced countries where native language instruction is the norm.
Focus on Internships and Experiential Learning
The UGC has issued guidelines for internships, including research and industry internships, to help students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Professor Kumar emphasized that experiential learning is vital for career readiness, enabling students to tackle practical challenges effectively. Institutions are encouraged to collaborate with industries and organisations to provide such opportunities, making education more meaningful.
Insights from IIT Madras Director
Professor V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, highlighted a crucial issue: India’s Gross Enrollment Ratio in higher education is currently around 30 per cent. He stressed the importance of addressing this figure as the nation has a significant youth population aged 15 to 35. Failure to improve educational quality now could lead to challenges in the future.
He elaborated on the need for leadership in three key areas:
- Education – developing skilled educators.
- Administrative services – fostering leaders with strong technological backgrounds for future governance.
- Entrepreneurship – encouraging innovation and problem-solving through entrepreneurship to impact society positively.
These focal points align with the NEP 2020’s objectives of preparing students for future socio-economic challenges.
Changes to Examination Policies
To streamline academic processes, the UGC has allowed universities to conduct end-semester exams alongside regular assessments, eliminating the need for students to rely solely on the National Testing Agency (NTA). This change saves students both time and money while providing them with flexibility in meeting examination requirements. Additionally, universities are urged to motivate students to enrol in SWAYAM courses, further enhancing their learning experience.
Conclusion
The UGC’s Southern Zone Conference at IIT Madras was a pivotal event in discussing the implementation of NEP 2020 and its strategies. With a focus on skill development, employability, and inclusive education, the policy continues to drive forward-looking changes in the Indian educational framework. The emphasis on practical learning, use of Indian languages, and revised examination systems highlights a holistic approach aimed at producing graduates who are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world.