The government announced the National Education Policy 2020 to bring a transformation in the education sector in India. It aimed to bring notable changes in the study pattern and how education was imparted to the students. This was the much-needed change considering the youth population, outdated education systems and a fast changing world. Let’s understand what the NEP hold for future students of India.
National Education Policy Changes
Following were the key transformations that the National Education Policy ought to bring in India:
- Skill Based Learning
This is one of the key and welcome changes in the NEP 2020. Parting ways from traditional rote learning systems, NEP laid emphasis on skill based learning. Hands on training and practical experience are now becoming part of mainstream education. Students are now focusing on internships, apprenticeships, service learning organisations and live projects. The government has also launched internship portals to allow students to pursue internships in corporates to help them get real-world experience and an opportunity to test their skills.
- Promoting Research and Innovation
The NEP actively promotes research and innovation, changing the pattern of how student minds operate. Many colleges and universities now also function as incubation centres, allowing their students to simultaneously work on real life projects and startups. They receive mentorship and financial support while also allowing them to nurture innovation and critical thinking.
- Flexible Entry-Exit Options
This is another key change in the NEP that will ensure that the efforts of the students don’t go in vain just because they aren’t able to complete the entire course. NEP 2020 has allowed students multiple entry and exit options from the course. This will allow students to exit the course after one year with a certificate, two years with a diploma and three/four years with a degree. Further, they can pause and later resume their academic qualification without losing the credits. They will also be able to transfer their credits to another institution, in case they decide to change the same.
Implementation of NEP 2020
NEP is a major reform in the education sector and its proper implementation is pivotal in making it a successful initiative. To ensure the same, the government has developed Academics Innovation Centres to test academic structures, credit transfers, interdisciplinary learning etc. Further, Research Centres are developed to promote basic and applied research in various fields. In order to bridge the gap between academics and industry, the government developed the Innovation and Internship Centre.
In a Nutshell
The National Education Policy 2020 will set a new direction as to how the students perceive education. Today’s world requires problem solvers and critical thinkers instead of rote learners. All the information is readily available online and therefore, more emphasis is needed on the value people can bring towards development and innovation. Employers are shifting from conventional education to skilled talents with required capabilities. What are your thoughts regarding NEP 2020?