Dipak Kurmi
(The writer is a journalist and commentator based in Guwahati, and can be reached at dipaknewslive@gmail.com)
Education is the cornerstone of progress and development in any society. Recognising the need for reform in the education system, the Government of India introduced the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in July 2020. The NEP aimed to revolutionise the education landscape by embracing a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. Tezpur University has emerged as a trailblazer in implementing the NEP’s principles, fostering a student-centric environment that encourages exploration and flexibility.
The traditional education system often compartmentalised students into specific streams like science, commerce, and the arts. However, under the visionary NEP, Tezpur University has ushered in a new era where students have the liberty to follow their passions and interests, unbounded by rigid course divisions. This means a student pursuing physics can concurrently explore subjects such as music, sports, or literature, promoting a well-rounded educational experience.
One of the key elements of this progressive approach is the unique identification code (UIC) assigned to each student, akin to the Aadhaar number. This 12-digit UIC facilitates an all-India student status, eliminating any hurdles that students might face while studying at home or abroad. This streamlined identification system ensures seamless transfers between educational institutions, enabling students to continue their educational journey with ease should they choose to switch institutions after one, two, or three years of study.
Tezpur University has embraced the NEP’s curriculum and framework for undergraduate programmes, implementing the Choice-Based Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programmes (CCFUP), widely known as the 4-year degree programme. This model empowers students to explore diverse subjects of interest before deciding on a major. They can sample a subject for a semester or two before making a well-informed choice. Additionally, students can opt for complementary minors or purely interdisciplinary courses, all tailored to their preferences and convenience.
The NEP introduces value-added courses (VAC), Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC), Multidisciplinary Courses (MDC), and Ability Enhancement Courses (AEC) to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Tezpur University has taken significant strides by incorporating 24 value-added courses, 22 skill development courses, 27 multidisciplinary courses, and five capacity-building courses in its undergraduate programmes.
A unique feature of the NEP is the concept of multiple entry and exit opportunities in educational programmes offered by higher education institutions. This means students can join or leave an integrated programme at various stages based on their learning objectives and career aspirations. Tezpur University has effectively integrated these flexible options for the academic year 2023-2024, opening up exciting possibilities for students to design their educational path.
To support the seamless transfer of credits and facilitate academic mobility, Tezpur University has established the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC). Each student is assigned a 12-digit ABC ID that enables them to redeem academic credits effortlessly when transitioning from one higher education institution to another. This innovation simplifies credit transfer and enhances students’ opportunities to pursue diverse educational experiences.
Tezpur University’s commitment to multidisciplinary education is evident through the establishment of the Centre for Multidisciplinary Research (CMDR) in 2020. This centre fosters collaboration and innovation across various disciplines, encouraging students and faculty to explore interdisciplinary projects.
Moreover, recognising the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the education ecosystem, the university’s Teaching Learning Centre empowers educators with the necessary skills and training aligned with the NEP’s vision.
Tezpur University’s proactive adoption of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 showcases its dedication to transforming education in India. By embracing a flexible and multidisciplinary approach, the university has opened doors to new learning opportunities for students, promoting a culture of exploration, innovation, and academic excellence. This educational paradigm shift paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive, and more dynamic future for the students of India.