The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced draft guidelines for introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials in higher education institutions, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020. These courses, including emerging fields such as data analytics and AI, aim to enhance students' employability and support economic growth through a qualified workforce. Feedback on the guidelines will be accepted for the next 30 days, giving students and educators a chance to provide their input.
Higher Education Goes Skill-Based: UGC Unveils Draft Guidelines
Background
The Indian education system has long been criticized for its rigid structure and lack of emphasis on practical skills. In an effort to address these concerns, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 proposed a major reform of the higher education sector.
One of the key initiatives under the NEP is the introduction of skill-based courses and micro-credentials. These courses aim to provide students with the specific skills and knowledge required by employers, enhancing their employability and contributing to economic growth.
The UGC's Draft Guidelines
In line with the NEP, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has released draft guidelines for introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials in higher education institutions. These guidelines outline the framework for developing, offering, and assessing these courses.
The guidelines encompass a wide range of courses, including:
Benefits
The introduction of skill-based courses and micro-credentials is expected to benefit both students and the economy:
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is a micro-credential?
A micro-credential is a short-term, recognized credential that certifies a specific skill or area of knowledge. It can be awarded through online platforms, bootcamps, or higher education institutions.
2. Are skill-based courses part of a degree program?
Skill-based courses can be offered as standalone courses or as part of a degree program. Students can earn micro-credentials within a skill-based course, which can later be combined to form a full degree.
3. How are skill-based courses assessed?
Assessment methods may vary depending on the course, but they typically include a combination of assignments, projects, and exams.
4. What is the future of skill-based education in India?
The government has announced plans to introduce skill-based education in all higher education institutions by 2025. This move is expected to revolutionize the Indian education system and enhance the country's competitiveness in the global economy.
5. How can students and educators provide feedback on the draft guidelines?
The UGC is accepting feedback on the draft guidelines for the next 30 days. Feedback can be submitted through the official UGC website.
A recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified heart disease as the leading cause of mortality globally, with over 39 million deaths recorded in 2021. As the world's population continues to grow, basic amenities face significant challenges, and diseases are spreading due to poor lifestyle choices. Furthermore, the rise in chronic illnesses such as COPD and diabetes among young individuals is a cause for concern. With new technologies and lifestyle advancements, it is essential to prioritize health and consult with medical professionals before making any significant health changes.
A mild earthquake of 4.4 magnitude shook Delhi and neighboring regions on Thursday morning, originating in Haryana's Jhajjar district. The National Centre of Seismology reported that the earthquake was shallow and could have caused significant damage, but there were no immediate reports of any damage. Incessant rainfall and thunderstorms have also affected Delhi's weather, with a red alert issued for the entire Delhi-NCR region. On a positive note, Delhi's air quality index has remained in the satisfactory category for the last 15 days.
Health Minister Veena George confirmed that a 78-year-old woman in Malappuram, who was on the Nipah virus contact list, has tested negative for the virus after her death. Currently, 498 people across the state of Kerala are under observation for the Nipah virus, with the majority of them in Malappuram and Palakkad.
India's Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, is exploring projects in Norway, where the government is funding the largest carbon storage project in the country. This aligns with India's ambitious energy transition agenda. The project involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial sources and storing them underground, which can help decarbonise industries and mitigate climate change.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that intermittent fasting might be just as effective as traditional calorie-restricted diets, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions. Despite the limitations of the study, which focused on trials lasting less than 24 weeks, it provides some indication that intermittent fasting can result in weight loss and improved cardiometabolic risk factors. However, the study authors caution that longer-term research is needed to confirm these effects.
Scientific research has found that consistent meditation can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. By focusing one's attention and letting thoughts come and go without judgment, meditation can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while also improving focus, concentration, and sleep quality. Even brief daily meditation sessions have been found to have positive effects on mood and cognitive function, making it a valuable tool for anyone new to the practice or looking to manage their mental health.
"Kerala's Nipah Contact List Surges to 425, Health Workers and Isolation Measures Strengthened" The Nipah contact list in Kerala has reached a staggering 425 individuals, with Malappuram district recording the highest number of contacts. 12 individuals in Malappuram and one in Palakkad are currently undergoing treatment, with a special focus on mental health support for the public. In a high-level review meeting, it was decided that only samples from contacts would be tested in Palakkad and measures such as ambulance readiness and contact tracing intensified.
A team of archaeologists from the Vindolanda Charity Trust in northern England has discovered a collection of Roman shoes, all measuring over 30 centimeters long, at the Magna Roman Fort in Northumberland. These "giant" shoes, equivalent to size 49 in Europe and size 15 in the US, have left experts baffled as they search for an explanation for their unusual size. The team is now speculating on who may have worn these shoes, and what their presence at this particular site may signify. This discovery sheds new light on the daily life of Roman soldiers stationed at the Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site.
"India's Young Cricket Captain Leads the Way: Breaking Records and Comparisons to Legends" Shubman Gill has stepped up as the new captain of the Indian cricket team and proves he is turning out to be a star in his own right. In just his 34th Test, Gill surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's highest score and has outperformed Virat Kohli as well. His leadership skills and batting prowess have earned him recognition and praise from fans and even exhausted opponents. Despite criticism, Gill stayed true to his own tactics and proved himself with an epic inning of 269. He has set a high standard for himself and the Indian team as they continue the series against England.
WHO has released its first-ever global guideline on managing sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy, highlighting the dangers faced by women and their babies. SCD is an inherited blood disorder with potentially fatal consequences, and the health risks intensify during pregnancy. The new guideline aims to improve outcomes for pregnant women with SCD and calls for more investment in evidence-based treatments and disease awareness. With SCD on the rise globally, increasing numbers of maternity care providers need to be equipped to handle its challenges.