Upgrade curriculum to align with new edu policy: UGC to varsities

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed all universities and their colleges to update their academic curriculum so that it aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020.

In a letter addressed to the vice-chancellors of universities and principals of colleges, UGC Secretary Prof Manish Joshi emphasised that the upgraded curriculum should incorporate latest technological advancements and conceptual innovations.

“In a world evolving at an unprecedented pace, where conceptual innovations and technological advancements are frequently reimagined and upgraded shortly after their introduction, it is imperative that our education system keeps pace,” the UGC’s letter read.

It said, “In this dynamic landscape, the responsibility to address the emerging challenges and opportunities rests with educational leaders, classroom teachers, academic administrators and community stakeholders alike.”

Joshi further mentioned that the NEP-2020 emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the curriculum.

“Its (NEP) vision is to make education more holistic, flexible, and aligned with the demands of the 21st century. It calls for a paradigm shift from rote memorization to conceptual understanding, critical thinking, creativity and multidisciplinary learning. The revised curriculum must aim to reduce the content burden, incorporate essential life skills, and promote experiential, hands-on learning,” the letter said.

Joshi said that one of the most impactful strategies for staying ahead in the evolving educational ecosystem was the regular and thoughtful revision of academic curriculum.

Universities have also been encouraged to incorporate short-term skills-based modules, industry-related internships, and apprenticeship-embedded degree programmes into their teaching.