‘Design Your Degree’ prog acts as catalyst for advancing academic programs: Prof Dinesh Singh
May 08, 2024
JAMMU: Highlighting the transformative potential of the ‘Design Your Degree' programme in reshaping educational paradigms and aligning seamlessly with the objectives of the National Education Policy, Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, Higher Education Council, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, said on Wednesday that it acts as a catalyst for advancing academic programmes by strategically implementing innovative approaches.
"This initiative marks a significant shift towards holistic learning and skill development," Prof. Dinesh Singh said while chairing a meeting of the vice-chancellors of various universities in the Union Territory at the University of Jammu campus.
The meeting assessed the preparedness for implementing the Design Your Degree programme across universities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Underscoring the paramount importance of this programme, Prof. Singh said that it spearheads academic innovations and embodies the core ethos of the National Education Policy.
Within a comprehensive four-year framework, students have the opportunity to explore various educational paths, fostering informed decision-making and personal growth, he added.
During the initial phases, the programme provides students with a transformative educational journey, establishing a broad foundation for holistic development. Guided by the principles of the principles of the National Education Policy, this immersive experience equips students with the adaptability and insight required to navigate dynamic academic environments effectively, he said.
Prof. Singh emphasised the universal adoption of the Design Your Degree programme across all educational institutions.
Referring to the concerns regarding disciplinary implications, he reaffirmed the programme's commitment to invigorating and modernising all academic disciplines, ensuring relevance and dynamism in curriculum delivery.
The meeting also reviewed the progress of the Design Your Degree programme, with special emphasis on pedagogy and faculty preparedness.
The vice-chancellors of the various universities gave a detailed presentation and comments concerning the progress of the DYD in their respective institutions, with special emphasis on pedagogy and faculty preparedness. Deliberations also included the requirements for revamping the programme and capacity-building programmes to create awareness.
Prof. Dinesh Singh articulated the need for generating awareness and readiness among the parents, students, and faculty of various higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir towards the "Design Your Degree" programme.
In a bid to showcase the initiatives already undertaken by institutions such as the University of Jammu and IUST, who have already started this programme, Professor Singh prepossessed activities aimed at gaining public recognition within and outside the Union Territory. He put forth significant proposals aimed at advancing the educational landscape in the Union Territory.
Various issues with a focus on bringing collaboration, awareness, and effective implementation of educational reforms shall also be deliberated upon in a meeting to be chaired by the Lieutenant Governor, JKUT.
Prof. Singh suggested organising an activity in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce. This event would serve as a platform to discuss and showcase the evolving landscape of education in the Union Territory, particularly through programmes like "Design Your Degree."
By involving key stakeholders from various sectors, this activity aims to highlight the role of education in driving socio-economic development.
Given the transformative nature of the Design Your Degree programme, discussions also centred on dovetailing it with existing programmes and enhancing inter-institutional coordination to effectively implement the National Education Policy.
Prof. Singh also proposed the formation of an inter-institutional coordination committee to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, with a specific emphasis on the role of "Design Your Degree." Under this initiative, all higher education institutions in Jammu are urged to nominate two faculty members from their respective institutions.
These representatives will convene monthly meetings to discuss and coordinate the implementation of NEP 2020 initiatives, with a focus on the innovative aspects of "Design Your Degree."
