UGC Invites Feedback on Draft Guidelines for Skill-Based Courses and Micro-Credentials in Higher Education

The UGC guidelines propose courses in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, sustainable practices, and digital marketing, by embedding these skill-based courses into academic programs.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a public notice inviting comments, suggestions, and feedback within 30 days on its draft guidelines for introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials in higher education institutions (HEIs). The guidelines, accompanied by a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for implementation, aim to enhance employability, foster lifelong learning, and support economic growth through a skilled workforce.

According to UGC Chairman Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, the guidelines represent a significant step in realizing the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. They aim to equip students with practical, industry-relevant skills alongside academic knowledge, aligning education with the evolving demands of the job market. Prof. Kumar emphasized that India's youth are a tremendous asset in the journey toward becoming a globally competitive knowledge economy. To harness this potential, he noted, higher education institutions must adapt to provide flexible, multidisciplinary, and skill-oriented education.

The guidelines propose courses in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, sustainable practices, and digital marketing. By embedding these skill-based courses into academic programs, students will acquire practical expertise and stackable credits through the National Credit Framework (NCrF), which allows for seamless learning across academic, skill, and experiential domains. This approach bridges the gap between traditional education and industry needs, fostering adaptability and enhancing employability.

The guidelines also emphasize collaboration between academia and industry, enabling HEIs to work closely with industry experts, awarding bodies, and sector skill councils. This model ensures students gain real-world experience and hands-on knowledge, preparing them to compete effectively in national and global job markets.

UGC has invited stakeholders, including educators, industry leaders, and students, to review the draft guidelines and submit their feedback through a Google form within the specified 30-day period. Prof. Kumar commended the efforts of the expert committees that developed the guidelines and SOPs, stating that these efforts will transform higher education into a more inclusive and skill-focused system. The draft guidelines provide a roadmap for HEIs to implement these initiatives effectively, empowering students to become skilled professionals and innovators of tomorrow.

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