The University Grants Commission (UGC) is making significant strides in integrating skill-based education into regular degree programs. This initiative aims to equip students with practical skills in addition to their core academic knowledge, without overburdening them with extra credits. According to UGC Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, the commission has approved guidelines to seamlessly incorporate skill education into undergraduate programs, aligning with Article 41 of the Indian Constitution, which emphasizes the right to work and education.
Traditionally, students pursuing a degree in disciplines such as economics, physics, or languages had limited exposure to skill-based learning. However, under the new UGC guidelines, 50% of a student’s credits will be allocated to skill-based courses. This means students can major in their chosen subject while simultaneously developing expertise in fields like finance, wealth management, logistics, and data science, particularly for those with a mathematical background.
How is UGC making skill education a part of regular degree programmes?
Students can major in their chosen field while gaining additional skills such as finance, data science, logistics & more, without extra credit overload.
Listen to UGC Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar… pic.twitter.com/zYzzAjYpN7
— UGC INDIA (@ugc_india) March 1, 2025
The inclusion of skill-based education addresses a critical gap in higher education – employability. Many graduates struggle to find jobs due to a lack of practical skills. By incorporating courses in financial management, data science, and logistics, students will be better prepared for the job market. This approach ensures that graduates are not just theoretically proficient but also industry-ready with valuable practical skills.
To ensure the relevance of skill courses, UGC is actively collaborating with industry experts, sector skill councils, and professional organizations. This partnership allows universities to design curricula that match current industry requirements. By introducing certifications, internships, and apprenticeship-based learning within degree programs, students will gain hands-on experience, making them more competitive in the workforce.
One of the key concerns of students and educators is the potential increase in academic workload. To prevent this, UGC has structured the program so that skill education is a part of the regular curriculum rather than an additional requirement. Students will not have to take extra courses beyond their existing credit framework. Instead, they will have the flexibility to choose from multiple skill-oriented courses within their program’s credit structure.
This initiative is also in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes multidisciplinary and skill-based learning. The policy advocates for an education system that is flexible, inclusive, and aligned with industry needs. By integrating skill-based courses, UGC is ensuring that students graduate with a well-rounded education that enhances their career prospects.
The UGC’s decision to incorporate skill education into regular degree programs marks a progressive step in higher education reform. By allowing students to major in their preferred subjects while acquiring practical skills, this initiative bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements. With structured guidelines and a well-balanced credit system, students can now pursue a holistic education that not only enriches their learning experience but also boosts their employability in a competitive job market.
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