The University Grants Commission (UGC) on Friday asked all universities to bring in statutory changes in their structure to allow students to pursue two academic degrees simultaneously in physical mode. The UGC had in April approved a proposal to allow students to pursue two full-time degrees simultaneously.
In a statement on Friday, the UGC said, “All Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) were requested through their statutory bodies to devise mechanisms to allow students to pursue two academic programs simultaneously. Once again It is requested that in the larger interest of the students, the implementation of the said scheme may kindly be ensured and expedited, if it has not been done so far.”
UGC allows students to pursue two full-time studies academic Schedule in the same time frame given that the class times for both the programs do not clash with each other. Earlier, the UGC allowed students to pursue one regular and one distance course simultaneously, but this development is significant as it now allows students to pursue two full-time degrees simultaneously.
Talking about the policy, the UGC said, “The issue of allowing students to pursue two academic programs simultaneously has been examined keeping in view the proposals envisaged in the National Education Policy-NEP2O2O, Emphasizes the need to facilitate multiple avenues for education. Inclusion of both formal and non-formal education modes.”
It said, “The National Policy on Education – NEP 2o2o states that with a view to make education more experiential, holistic, integrated, inquiry-driven, discovery-oriented, learner-centred, discussion-based, flexible and of course, enjoyable. should be developed.”
On degree programmes, the UGC states, “Degree or diploma programs under ODL (Open and Distance Learning) and online mode shall be undertaken only with such HEIs which are recognized by the UGC, Statutory Council and Government of India for carrying out such programs “
“The degree or diploma programs under these guidelines shall be governed by the regulations notified by the UGC and the respective statutory/professional councils, wherever applicable,” it added.
The UGC implemented the guidelines from the date of issue of the circular on September 30, 2022. However students cannot take retroactive benefits and the current guidelines do not apply to PhD students.
catch all education news And updates on Live Mint. download mint news app to receive daily market update & Live business News,