UGC Releases Draft Guidelines on Credit System, Entrepreneurship, Skill-Based Learning: Read Full Report Here

New Delhi: To make possible the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, the University Grants Commission has released the national higher education qualification framework and draft guidelines on the credit system, entrepreneurship, and skill-based learning. 

Bringing higher educational institutes at the same level, the UGC draft has divided the learning outcomes of different stages, from undergraduate to Ph.D. stages into eight levels. Each level is explained in detail in the outline with the details of credit requirements. 

The draft mainly focuses on the level of knowledge offered to students at each level, and further includes learning outcomes and ethical values acquired at different stages. The draft also includes developing an "entrepreneurial mindset" in students at the higher education levels. 

Following the proposals of NEP 2020, the draft suggests that UGC-approved colleges and universities can offer a three-year or four-year undergraduate program to students. The program will be offered with multiple entry and exit options, and Academic Bank of Credits. 

Furthermore, all universities can include “credit-based courses and projects in the areas of community engagement and service, environmental education, and value-based education" the draft reads. 

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UGC NEP 2020 Framework 2022: Credit Requirement Included in Programs

To provide freedom to students, the UGC NEP 2020 Framework 2022 draft talks about awarding undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma degrees to students based on their "demonstrated achievement of learning outcomes". 

Based on students' performance, they will be allotted with credit scores under the Academic Bank of Credits. With the help of credit scores, students will have the opportunity to exit their program after completing half the program duration. 

A certificate will be awarded to students after the completion of their first year of the UG program, while a diploma certificate will be offered to students if they wish to leave the program after the second year. 

As for a three-year bachelor's degree or a four-year bachelor's degree, students will be awarded undergraduate program certifications with an added component of research if they decide to complete the program. 

As per the official notice, “A credit is a unit by which the coursework is measured. It determines the number of hours of instruction required per week for the duration of a semester (15-16 weeks)”.

“One credit is equivalent to one hour of teaching (lecture or tutorial) or two hours of practical or fieldwork per week. Credit is awarded to a learner in recognition of the verified achievement of defined learning outcomes at a specified level,” the draft explained.

The draft is now open for all interested universities and stakeholders to check on the official website of the Union Grants Commission. Those who have any objections to the guidelines can send their recommendations at nepnheqf@gmail.com by February 13, 2022. 

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