National Education Policy

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NEP – 2020

A) NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY (NEP) 2020

NEP 2020 Introduction:

The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) is a transformative blueprint designed to overhaul India’s education system. Launched by the Government of India in July 2020, this policy represents the first major educational reform in over three decades, replacing the previous framework from 1986. NEP 2020 aims to address the changing needs of learners in the 21st century and align India’s educational approach with global standards. The policy introduces key changes in the higher education sector, focusing on areas like curriculum, teaching methods, governance, and research, with the goal of modernizing and enhancing the country’s educational outcomes.

Key Features of NEP 2020 in Higher Education:

  1. Interdisciplinary Learning:NEP 2020 promotes an interdisciplinary approach in higher education, allowing students to combine subjects from different disciplines. It encourages the blending of arts, sciences, humanities, and professional studies to foster cross-disciplinary understanding and break down traditional academic silos.
  2. Adaptable Undergraduate Programs:The policy offers flexible undergraduate programs, enabling students to mix and match major and minor subjects or pursue a broad multidisciplinary track. This adaptability allows students to tailor their education to their personal interests and career aspirations.
  3. Comprehensive Education and Skill Development:NEP 2020 advocates for a holistic educational approach, focusing on developing critical thinking, creativity, communication, and ethical values. The policy also encourages experiential learning, vocational training, and internships to help students gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
  4. Fostering Research and Innovation: The policy emphasizes the importance of research and innovation in higher education. It supports the creation of research parks, incubation centers, and partnerships with industries and research organizations to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. NEP 2020 also encourages integrating research opportunities into undergraduate programs.
  5. Quality Assurance and Accreditation:The policy calls for a strong accreditation and quality assurance system in higher education. It seeks to establish an independent accreditation authority to ensure high-quality standards across educational institutions.
  6. Technology-Driven Education:NEP 2020 recognizes technology’s role in enhancing higher education. It promotes the use of technology-enabled learning tools, such as online courses, digital libraries, and e-learning platforms, to improve access to education and support innovative teaching methods.
  7. Global Collaborations:The policy encourages international collaborations among higher education institutions. It promotes student and faculty exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and partnerships with reputable foreign universities, aiming to provide global exposure and enrich the educational experience.
  8. Streamlined Governance and Regulation:NEP 2020 proposes a unified regulatory framework for higher education by establishing the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI). This new regulatory body will replace existing ones to ensure more streamlined and transparent oversight of higher education institutions.
  9. Vision for Transformation: NEP 2020 envisions a transformation in the quality, relevance, and accessibility of higher education in India. It aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global environment, fostering their ability to contribute effectively to society and the economy.

 

B) Curriculum Structure

1) Major Subject: A single subject course of study pursued by a student as a mandatory requirement of the programme of study.

2) Minor Subject: A second subject of study pursued by a student in addition to the Core subject and which complements the Core subject.

3) IKS: Indian Knowledge System- in alignment with the Core subject providing knowledge about the rich heritage and culture of India and knowing its roots.

4) OEC/ GEC: Open / General Elective Course – An elective course chosen generally from an unrelated discipline/subject only, to seek multi / interdisciplinary exposure thereby enhancing employability.

5) VSEC: Vocational and Skill Enhancement Course- a course related to either Major or Minor subject. Catering to the Multiple entry and exit of students.

6) VSC: Vocational Skill Course – Courses aimed at imparting practical skills, hands-on training, and soft skills to increase the employability of students. Specific or supporting the major subject is to be chosen from a basket/pool offered by the college.

7) SEC: Skill Enhancement Course – Courses aimed at imparting practical skills, hands-on training, and soft skills to increase students’ employability. It could be chosen from a basket/pool offered by the college or a MOOC on Swayam or NPTEL platforms and related to the Core subject.

8) AEC: Ability Enhancement Course – Mandatory Courses on content related to Language, and Literature
a)Compulsory–English-communication
b) Elective – any Modern Indian language other than English.

9) On-Job Training (OJT)/ Internship/Field Project (FP)/ Research Project (RP)/ Community Engagement and Service Programme (CEP): Application of knowledge/ concepts in solving or analyzing a real-life problem. Aims at fulfilling graduate attributes of Communication, Leadership, Problem- solving, Goal setting, Task delivery etc. All these are related to the major subject.

10) CC: Co-curricular Course – For the holistic development of students through NSS, NCC, Yoga Education, Health and Wellness, Fitness, Sports, Rotaract, Cultural activities such as Fine/ Applied/ Performing/ Visual arts, etc. VEC: Value Education Course – Aims at creating awareness, updating the knowledge moving with time and at the same time making responsible citizens of the country.