UGC Issues Guidelines for Skill-Based Courses in Higher Education
The University Grants Commission has approved various new guidelines to introduce skill-based courses in higher education institutions all over India. These guidelines are implemented to align educational offerings with industry requirements and increase the employability of students by integrating practical skills into their academic curriculum.
According to this, higher education institutions will have the flexibility to provide skill-based courses in various fields. These courses can be provided with partnership with industry bodies, skill development centres and professional organisations to meet market demands.
The institutions may offer short-term and long-term courses which cover topics like emerging technologies, healthcare, agriculture and other priority sectors. Higher education institutions are always encouraged to collaborate with the National Skill Development Corporation and Sector Skill Councils to design these programmes.
Students will get the certificate upon completion of the course which could later contribute towards their degree programmes. UGC has also given the credits which were earned from skill-based courses should be recognised under the National Credit Framework by enabling their seamless integration into academic qualifications.
Guidelines have also emphasised the role of technology in starting these courses by suggesting a blended learning approach that will combine by offering online and offline teaching methods. Institutions are also encouraged to create dedicated centres for skill development and appoint trained faculty to conduct various sessions.
The UGC has done the planning to monitor the implementation of these guidelines and give periodic updates to ensure their effectiveness. Multinational corporations (MNCs) interested in offering skill-based courses in HEIs who are looking for UGC's approval by fostering a collaborative approach to skill development.
These guidelines are currently available on the UGC portal for public feedback and suggestions, reflecting a commitment to inclusive policy formulation. Institutions are also interested in giving skill-based courses which will fulfill according to these guidelines and submit periodic reports on their progress.
For latest details, institutions can visit the UGC website
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