Finance
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved new regulations permitting undergraduate (UG) students to earn their degrees sooner or later than the customary time frame. UGC Chief M Jagadesh Kumar announced this decision, which aims to increase flexibility in higher education and emphasizes a student-centered approach to education.
Higher education institutions (HEIs) can now provide two distinct alternatives under the new guidelines announced as part of the Compendium of UGC Regulations: expedited degree programmes and extended degree programmes.
Students with superior academic performance or who complete additional credits can graduate ahead of schedule under an accelerated degree program. Students facing personal, financial, or academic obstacles can take extra time to complete their degrees under the extended degree program without incurring any penalties.
“UG degrees completed earlier or later to be treated at par with standard duration degrees,” the chairman said while releasing the Compendium of UGC Regulations.
The change is likely to help students pursuing integrative studies, professional courses, or those juggling schooling and other responsibilities. Institutions will also have the flexibility to implement these choices based on their infrastructure and academic resources.
It also reflects global trends in higher education, where flexible learning paths are increasingly valued. The UGC’s program also aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes learner-centered education and skill development.
HEIs are likely to release the appropriate frameworks and rules soon, allowing students to adapt their academic paths to better fit their objectives.
Source: IE
