The year 2023 witnessed a series of significant advancements in the education sector, ranging from the establishment of foreign university campuses to key legislative amendments. As we reflect on this transformative year, let’s take a closer look at the pivotal changes that promise to reshape the educational landscape.
- Opening Doors to Foreign University Campuses:
In a groundbreaking move, the University Grants Commission (UGC) paved the way for foreign university campuses in India. The draft UGC (Recognition and Grant of Equivalence to Qualifications obtained from Foreign Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2023 set the stage, followed by the official “University Grants Commission (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023.” Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this development marks a significant stride towards global education integration.
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- National Credit Framework (NCrF):
April witnessed the unveiling of the final draft of the National Credit Framework (NCrF) by the UGC. Transforming the learning landscape, NCrF allows students to accrue credits through diverse avenues—offline, online, or a hybrid of both. Aligned with NEP 2020, it bridges academic and vocational realms, offering flexibility and recognition beyond traditional boundaries. NCrF’s validation framework addresses post-pandemic challenges, ensuring legitimacy for non-traditional learning paths.
- Curriculum Revisions by NCERT:
NCERT made headlines by revising Class 12 Political Science textbooks, removing sections related to the ban on RSS after Gandhi’s assassination and nuances around Gandhi’s efforts for Hindu-Muslim unity. The rationalisation aimed at lightening students’ academic load during the pandemic, clarified NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani.
- Mandatory Internships for UG Courses:
In October, UGC mandated internships for undergraduate students across various programmes. Aligned with NEP 2020, the move emphasises research and innovation in education. Two categories of internships—enhancing employability and developing research aptitude—promise a holistic educational experience.
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- Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2023:
A significant legislative milestone unfolded on December 7, as the Lok Sabha passed the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill. This paves the way for the establishment of the ‘Proposed Central Tribal University in Telangana,’ envisioning superior education and research opportunities, especially tailored for tribal communities in the region.
