Summary
Proposed National Credit Framework to enable multiple entry - multiple exit systems in education
NHEQF outlines minimum credit score for students from graduation to PhD levels; scales down required credit scores
The University Grants Commission (UGC), on June 27, held a consultative meeting with vice-chancellors from the northwestern region on the implementation of the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF).
The virtual meeting, initiated by M Jagadesh Kumar, professor and chairman of UGC, was also attended by Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, chairman, National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and M P Poonia, vice-chairman of the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) apart from VCs, faculty members and students.
The meeting focused on certain alterations made by the commission to the pre-existing education policy. Speaking at the meet, Kumar said that the UGC and the AICTE are working together to bring a synchronised education system in the country. This system would further smoothen the entry of foreign universities in India. Owing to this new implementation, students in future can pursue dual degrees, which they couldn't earlier.
The proposed National Credit Framework (NCrF) to integrate comprehensive learning has enabled 'multiple entry-multiple exit (ME- ME)' pathways in general and vocational education. It has been structured in a way that establishes a flexible curriculum to enable a creative combination of disciplines. Students would now be able to learn trajectories and programmes along with various other career choices, including an option for mid-way course correction, as per their interests. The framework is expected to roll out in July 2022.
It also promotes internationalisation of education via credit transfer mediums, thereby enabling international equivalence that may, in turn, promote exchange with foreign universities. Provision to remove language barriers and promote Indian languages is a distinct element of this framework.
The NHEQF also outlines the minimum credit score which the students need to gain in order to move on to the next level.
The earlier credit level of five to 10 has been scaled down to 4.5 to 8. This parameter would be applicable from graduation to the PhD levels.
The main purpose behind the implementation of this programme is to provide a flexible education system to the future generations which would make them more employable as per industrial standards.
Last updated on 07 Jul 2022
