NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has prepared guidelines for the introduction of skill-based courses and micro-credentials in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to equip students with industry-relevant skills which will help them in securing jobs.
Emerging fields like artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital marketing and feature writing will be embedded with academic programmes which would enhance student’s chances of employability.
UGC chairman M Jagadesh Kumar said, “These guidelines aim to equip students with practical, industry-relevant skills and help them realise their academic goals in a chosen discipline. These guidelines aim to address the job market’s changing demands and prepare the youth to become key contributors to a globally competitive knowledge economy.”
In a meeting held on November 13, the UGC approved the guidelines for skill-based courses. They will be notified on the UGC portal for feedback.
Kumar said the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 advocates bridging the gap between conventional academic instruction and practical competencies employers seek by introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials as part of a student’s academic journey.
“By integrating the skill courses into the existing educational curriculum, HEIs can offer students exposure to emerging fields, such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital marketing, literary journalism and feature writing, conflict resolution and mediation, digital advocacy and campaigning, logistics & supply chain, sustainable agriculture, digital payments and banking, fashion marketing and e-commerce and sustainable practices,” he added.
Kumar said acquiring skills in these fields will provide enhanced opportunities to students to either be self-employed or tap new job opportunities.
The UGC has also stated that multinational corporations (MNCs) desirous of offering skill-based courses in the HEIs can seek UGC’s approval.