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Volume 9, Issue 7, July – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
IJISRT24JUL339 www.ijisrt.com 678
Paradigm Shift in Higher Education: National
Education Policy (NEP 2020)
Monika Tayade
Research Scholar
Abstract:- Education plays a crucial role in human
development, serving the acquisition of knowledge and
skills. The landscape of education in India has transformed,
since independence. This transformation has touched upon
various facets of education, reshaping its structure and
priorities. The National Education Policy of 1986, along
with a revised version in 1992, has been an integral part of
educational discourse. The unveiling of the National
Education Policy (NEP) in 2020 heralds a fresh vision for
education in India. NEP 2020 envisions an education system
starting from pre-primary to various aspects of higher
education. The perspective of NEP 2020 is to cater to the
unique capabilities of every student and their holistic
development. NEP 2020 has opened doors to many
initiatives for higher education that will impart quality
education. NEP 2020 has proposed advancement in higher
education: moving towards interdisciplinary and
multidisciplinary education, faculty and institutional
autonomy, various measures to enhance student
experiences, formation of a single regulatory body for
governing higher education, measures to include a large
number of student enrolment by the means of online
education and distance education. The researcher will
highlight various recommendations of NEP 2020
concerning various suggestions enlisted in the policy for
Higher education. The researcher will shed light on
initiatives for multidisciplinary education, optimal learning
environment, internationalization of higher education,
equity and inclusion in higher education, and vocational
education with effect from NEP 2020. The paper
emphasizes the significant changes in higher education
institutions, including the creation of multidisciplinary
universities, colleges, and programs.
Keywords:- Education, Higher Education, Higher Education
Institution, NEP 2020, Policy.
I. INTRODUCTION
Education is important to human development. For ages,
it is looked upon as a source for developing knowledge and
skills. We have seen growth and development in India in
various aspects of education. The scenario of Indian education
changed after independence. We all have learnt about National
Education Policy 1986 and the revised version in 1992.
Previous policies dealt with providing education to all strata of
the society. NEP 2020 has envisioned a new education system
starting from pre-primary to various aspects of higher
education. The perspective of the National Education Policy
(NEP) 2020 is centred on catering to the unique capabilities of
every student and fostering their holistic development. This
policy has initiated numerous initiatives in higher education
aimed at providing quality education to a wide audience. The
NEP 2020 advocates several key advancements in higher
education: Embracing Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary
Education: The NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of
breaking down traditional disciplinary boundaries and
promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration to address complex
real-world problems effectively. Empowering Faculty and
Institutional Autonomy: The policy advocates granting greater
autonomy to both faculty members and educational institutions,
enabling them to innovate, develop curriculum, and implement
policies that best suit their academic and administrative needs.
Enhancing student experiences through various measures: The
NEP 2020 proposes various measures to enrich the educational
experiences of students, including experiential learning
opportunities, skill development programs, and mentorship
initiatives aimed at fostering holistic development. To create a
unified Single Regulatory Body for Higher Education
Governance, the policy suggests the formation of a unified
regulatory body to streamline and oversee the governance of
higher education institutions, thereby promoting consistency,
transparency, and accountability across the sector. Expanding
Student Enrollment through Online and Distance Education:
The NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of leveraging online
education and distance learning platforms to facilitate access to
quality education for a larger number of students, particularly
those from remote or underserved areas. These proposed
advancements in higher education aim to foster a dynamic and
inclusive learning environment that equips students with the
knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive in an
increasingly interconnected and rapidly evolving global
landscape. With the help of this research paper, the researcher
wishes to highlight various recommendations of NEP 2020
concerning various suggestions enlisted in the policy for Higher
education. The researcher will shed light on initiatives for
multidisciplinary education, optimal learning environment,
internationalization of higher education, equity and inclusion in
higher education, and vocational education with effect from
NEP 2020. The researcher outlines initiatives for
Volume 9, Issue 7, July – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
IJISRT24JUL339 www.ijisrt.com 679
multidisciplinary education, optimal learning environment,
internationalization of higher education, equity and inclusion in
higher education, and vocational education with effect from
NEP 2020.The researcher highlights several transformations in
higher education institutions, including the establishment of
multidisciplinary universities, colleges, and programs. These
initiatives aim to serve students by providing an optimal
learning environment and support. Additionally, the
internationalization of higher education through various
strategies, promoting equity and inclusion in higher education,
considering implications for teacher education, and integrating
vocational education into mainstream education align with
recommendations outlined in the National Education Policy
(NEP).
Background of Indian Higher Education System
The history of the Indian higher education system is rich
and diverse, reflecting the country's ancient traditions, colonial
past and modern advancements. In the Vedic Period, education
was primarily imparted through Gurukuls, where students lived
with their teachers and learned various subjects like Vedas,
philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, and more.Education was
predominantly oral and heavily influenced by religious
teachings.In the Buddhist Period, there was the establishment
of major learning centres such as Nalanda, Takshashila,
Vikramashila, and Valabhi.These institutions attracted students
from across Asia and offered a variety of subjects including
theology, logic, grammar, medicine, and arts.In the Islamic
Period, the arrival of Islamic rule brought changes, with the
establishment of Madrasas, where Islamic theology, law,
literature, and sciences were taught.Some notable institutions
included the Madrasas of Bidar, Delhi, and Jaunpur. In the
British Colonial Period, the British introduced the Western
system of education, establishing colleges and universities
modelled on the British system. Some of the key institutions
founded during this time include the University of Calcutta
(1857), the University of Bombay (1857), and the University of
Madras (1857). The introduction of English as a medium of
instruction and the focus on subjects like science, law, and
humanities marked this period.The Wood's Dispatch of 1854
laid the foundation for the modern education system in India. If
we look at the post-independence period, there was significant
expansion and restructuring of higher education, with the
establishment of numerous universities and colleges across the
country.The University Grants Commission (UGC) was
established in 1956 to coordinate and maintain standards of
higher education.Introduction of various educational reforms
and policies to promote higher education, such as the National
Policy on Education (1986), which aimed at improving access,
equity, and quality.The establishment of premier institutions
like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes
of Management (IIMs), and Indian Institutes of Science
Education and Research (IISERs) was also done after
independence. If we look at recent developments there is
continued expansion and diversification of the higher education
system, including the rise of private universities and
institutions. There is an emphasis on research and innovation,
with initiatives like the National Institutional Ranking
Framework (NIRF) and the Institutions of Eminence (IoE)
scheme. There is an increased focus on digital and online
education, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,
which accelerated the adoption of technology in education. The
introduction and implementation of the National Education
Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to overhaul the higher
education system, focusing on multidisciplinary education,
increased flexibility, and enhanced quality is a major recent
development. The Indian higher education system continues to
evolve, striving to balance tradition with modernity, and aiming
to provide inclusive, high-quality education to a diverse
population.
II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
P.S.Aithal & Shubhrajyotana Aithal (2020), highlight
various policies proposed in the draft with special emphasis on
the higher education section and compare them with the
previous policies. P. Kalyani (2020) talks about NEP 2020 and
its effects on all the stakeholders and also suggests awareness
about the future impact of NEP. Dr Ashutosh Gaur's assessment
suggests that the NEP 2020 is poised to ignite innovation in the
education sector, his key findings are: NEP 2020 is anticipated
to enhance skill development across India by offering students
numerous entry and exit pathways, facilitating the pursuit of
higher education even after gaining work experience. Panditrao
MM asserts that the New Education Policy (NEP) is a
comprehensive and meticulously crafted document. This article
delves into various facets including issues, principles,
objectives, vision, challenges, and potential solutions. It
particularly emphasizes the policy's primary focus on Higher
Education. M.Jagadesh Kumar (2020) highlights various
features of policy that are suggestive of transformation in higher
education. K. Alok (2021) concluded that the main objective of
NEP 2020 is to increase GER at all levels of education,
suggestive measures are provided for the same. In his 2021
study, Wankhade found that higher education plays a crucial
role in determining both economic prosperity and social
standing. He emphasized the government's responsibility to
ensure inclusivity in higher education, aiming to accommodate
individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Pramod
and Raman (2021) examined the current state of IT
infrastructures in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and
explored decision-making processes concerning IT
investments. Their paper introduces a strategic model for IT
investment aimed at assisting HEIs in effectively implementing
the National Education Policy (NEP). P Sengupta. (2022),
highlights the concept of 'inclusion' for marginalized
communities and evaluates inclusiveness as suggested in NEP
2020. S. G. Sontakke, D.B. Kadam, and Vartale (2022) centre
on the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020, highlighting
its significant reforms in higher education. These reforms are
aimed at equipping the future generation of young individuals
to confront the challenges of the 21st century effectively. A.,
Volume 9, Issue 7, July – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
IJISRT24JUL339 www.ijisrt.com 680
Kurien., and S. B. Chandramana (2022), highlights NEP 2020
impact on Higher Education and also depict the features of NEP
and how they affect the current education system. S Yenugu.
(2022), states that while some aspects of NEP are novel most
suggestions are already in practice and implementations of
policy need escalation of academic, logistic and financial
commitments from all stakeholders. KC Tejashwini. (2022)
highlight the following, the impact of NEP on HE, opportunities
and challenges, the history of India's education system, the
impact of NEP onteachers, challenges to implement NEP as
well describe road ahead to NEP. Prof. (Dr.) Vedvyas Dwivedi
& Dr. Meeta Joshi (2023) analyzed the impact of India's
National Education Policy (NEP) on internationalization in
higher education. Vishnu Kumar Jatav, Sonia Kaur Bansal,
Khemchand Bairwa, and Mukesh Kumar Saini (2023) in the
research paper attempted to find out the important
recommendations made on assessment in the field of higher
education by National Education Policy 2020.
The Rationale of the Study
We observe many issues concerning higher education in
India. There is privatization of higher education and it is noticed
that higher education is beyond the reach of many students due
to various reasons. For the economy of any country to grow it
must have a strong foundation of school education, continuing
with subsequent higher education. This facilitates students in
achieving a degree, acquiring knowledge, and honing skills
necessary for success in their chosen careers. Education not
only fulfils the knowledge requirements of students but also
paves the way for financial self-sufficiency, enabling them to
generate income and create employment opportunities for
others. Additionally, India introduced two other policies in
1986 and 1992 which foresee transformation in the education
system. NEP 2020 focuses on increasing the gross enrolment
ratio by 50 per cent in Higher Education. This is quite a big task
to achieve; regardless there is continuous evaluation of NEP
2020 implementation to achieve its target. This research paper
sheds light on the recommendations outlined in NEP 2020 for
Higher Education and the consequent alterations ensuing from
the policy's implementation. The researcher aims to examine
the execution of the suggested measures delineated in the policy
for higher education. Specifically, the researcher will delve into
areas such as multidisciplinary education, fostering an optimal
learning environment, internationalization of higher education,
promoting equity and inclusion, and enhancing vocational
education as delineated in NEP 2020.
Need and Importance
NEP 2020 is widely regarded as a transformative roadmap
for reshaping the higher education landscape in India. It
encompasses numerous suggestions aimed at extending the
reach of the education system to a broader audience. This study
will concentrate on key aspects delineated in the policy,
including multidisciplinary education, fostering an optimal
learning environment, promoting the internationalization of
higher education, enhancing equity and inclusion, and
advancing vocational education, all in alignment with the
principles outlined in NEP 2020. The study will assess the
efforts made by universities and colleges to implement the
recommendations outlined for higher education in NEP 2020.
NEP 2020 is perceived as a catalyst for fostering the necessary
changes in the Higher Education system to meet the demands
of 21st-century learners effectively. The objective isn't solely to
boost the gross enrolment ratio but to overhaul the entire higher
education system in India. This policy represents a crucial step
forward in achieving widespreadaccess to higher education
among the masses, addressing a pressing need in our
educational landscape. The focus extends beyond a holistic
approach; it aims to nurture learners who not only seek
employment but also envision and establish their ventures and
small businesses, thereby addressing unemployment
challenges. The research will evaluate the current implications
of NEP 2020 within selected Universities and Higher Education
Institutions.
Objectives of the Present Study
The present study will highlight initiatives for
multidisciplinary education in higher education, concerning
NEP 2020.
The present study will enlist initiatives for the optimal
learning environment in higher education concerning NEP
2020.
The present study will state initiatives for the
internationalization of higher education concerning NEP
2020.
The present study will outline initiatives for, equity and
inclusion in higher education with 1 reference to NEP 2020.
The present study will list initiatives for vocational
education concerning NEP 2020
Problem Faced by the Indian Higher Education System
The Indian higher education system faces several
significant challenges that impact its overall effectiveness and
quality. There are several key problems faced by higher
education in India. Despite substantial growth, access to higher
education remains uneven, particularly for marginalized
communities, women, and rural populations. Socio-economic
disparities significantly affect enrollment rates. The quality of
education in many institutions is subpar, with outdated
curricula, a lack of innovative teaching methods, and
inadequate emphasis on research and practical skills. Many
higher education institutions suffer from poor infrastructure,
including inadequate classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and
technological resources. There is a significant shortage of
qualified and trained faculty. Many institutions rely on part-
time or ad-hoc faculty, affecting the continuity and quality of
education. Indian higher education institutions generally lag in
research and innovation. There is a lack of funding, support, and
culture for research activities, leading to low global research
rankings. The regulatory framework governing higher
education is often criticized for being overly complex and
restrictive, stifling autonomy and innovation among
Volume 9, Issue 7, July – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
IJISRT24JUL339 www.ijisrt.com 681
institutions. Public funding for higher education is often
inadequate and irregular. Many institutions face financial
constraints that hinder their ability to improve infrastructure,
hire quality faculty, and invest in research. There is a significant
gap between the skills imparted by higher education institutions
and the needs of the job market. Graduates often lack practical
and employable skills, leading to high rates of unemployment
or underemployment. The adoption of technology in higher
education is inconsistent. Many institutions struggle to integrate
digital tools and online learning platforms effectively, which
became particularly evident during the COVID-19
pandemic.Indian higher education institutions often do not rank
well in global rankings, affecting their reputation and the ability
to attract international students and faculty.Bureaucratic
hurdles and administrative inefficiencies can impede the
smooth functioning of higher education institutions, affecting
decision-making and policy implementation.Addressing these
challenges requires comprehensive reforms, increased
investment, emphasis on quality and innovation, and a
commitment to making higher education more inclusive and
relevant to contemporary needs.
Present Scenario in Higher Education
The present scenario in higher education in India is
characterized by rapid expansion, increased accessibility, and a
push for improved quality and global competitiveness. Here are
some key aspects of the current landscape of the Higher
Education system. There has been a significant increase in the
number of universities and colleges. As of the latest data, India
has over 1,000 universities and 40,000 colleges.Gross
Enrollment Ratio (GER) has been steadily increasing, aiming
to reach 50% by 2035 as per the National Education Policy
(NEP) 2020.The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption
of online education, with many universities offering online
courses and degrees.National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
aims to overhaul the education system, focusing on
multidisciplinary and holistic education, flexibility in course
choices, and the integration of vocational education.Academic
Bank of Credits (ABC) allows students to earn credits from
different institutions and accumulate them towards their
degrees.Efforts are being made to improve the quality of higher
education through accreditation agencies like NAAC (National
Assessment and Accreditation Council) and participation in
global rankings.Initiatives like the National Institutional
Ranking Framework (NIRF) and the promotion of research
parks, technology business incubators, and innovation
hubs.Many institutions face challenges related to inadequate
infrastructure, including labs, libraries, and hostels.There is a
significant shortage of qualified faculty members, which affects
the quality of education.Despite progress, there are still
disparities in access to higher education among different socio-
economic groups, genders, and regions.Initiatives like
SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young
Aspiring Minds) and the National Digital Library of India aim
to provide digital resources to students.Hybrid models
combining online and offline learning are being adopted to
enhance learning experiences.Indian institutions are
increasingly collaborating with foreign universities for
research, student exchange programs, and joint degrees.Efforts
are being made to attract international students to India, though
the numbers are still relatively low compared to other
countries.Government funding for higher education has been
increasing, but there is a need for more investment to meet the
growing demands.Various scholarships and education loan
schemes are available to support students financially.Stronger
ties between industry and academia are being fostered to ensure
that graduates are equipped with relevant skills.Integration of
vocational education into higher education to enhance
employability and entrepreneurship. The higher education
landscape in India is undergoing significant transformation,
driven by policy reforms, technological advancements, and a
focus on quality and accessibility. While there are challenges to
be addressed, the ongoing efforts aim to position India as a
global education hub and prepare its youth for the demands of
the 21st century.
III. INNOVATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN
INDIA
Innovation in higher education in India has been a focus
area in recent years, driven by the need to adapt to changing
educational landscapes, technological advancements, and
global competitiveness. Here are some key areas of innovation
in higher education in India:
Digital Learning Platforms: The adoption of digital learning
platforms has transformed the way education is delivered.
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), virtual
classrooms, and online resources have made education more
accessible and flexible, catering to a diverse range of
learners.
Skill Development Programs: Recognizing the importance
of industry-relevant skills, higher education institutions
have introduced skill development programs. These
programs focus on equipping students with practical skills
and knowledge, enhancing their employability and
entrepreneurial capabilities.
Interdisciplinary Studies: There's a growing emphasis on
interdisciplinary studies, encouraging students to explore
diverse fields and integrate knowledge from multiple
disciplines. This approach fosters innovation, critical
thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
Research and Innovation Centers: Universities and research
institutions are establishing dedicated centres for research
and innovation. These centres promote collaboration,
provide funding support, and offer resources to faculty and
students for conducting cutting-edge research and
developing innovative solutions.
Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystem: Initiatives such as
incubators, accelerators, and entrepreneurship cells within
universities are nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset among
students. They provide mentorship, networking
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ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
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opportunities, and funding support to aspiring
entrepreneurs, fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem.
International Collaborations: Collaboration with foreign
universities and institutions is increasing, facilitating
knowledge exchange, joint research projects, and student
exchange programs. This exposure to global perspectives
enhances the quality of education and promotes cross-
cultural learning.
Flexible Learning Models: Institutions are adopting flexible
learning models such as blended learning, flipped
classrooms, and personalized learning pathways. These
models cater to diverse learning styles, promote self-paced
learning, and improve student engagement and outcomes.
Quality Assurance Mechanisms: There's a focus on
enhancing quality assurance mechanisms through
accreditation, assessment frameworks, and continuous
monitoring. Quality benchmarks ensure that educational
standards are maintained, leading to better learning
outcomes and student satisfaction.
These innovative practices are reshaping higher education
in India, making it more dynamic, inclusive, and responsive to
the evolving needs of students and society.
IV. NEP RECOMMENDATION FOR HIGHER
EDUCATION
NEP 2020 is looked upon as a roadmap to transform the
higher education system in India. There are various suggestions
enlisted in the policy that will help the education system to
maximize its reach to the masses.
Initiatives for Multidisciplinary Education in Higher
Education, Concerning NEP 2020
Regarding the implementation of NEP 2020, the
Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) has gained
recognition. This accreditation has been extended to 41
Central/State Universities/Institutions, comprising IITs, NITs,
RIEs, and Government Colleges, for the Integrated Teacher
Education Programme (ITEP) starting from the academic
session of 2023-24. The ITEP will adopt a Dual Major
Programme structure, where the primary major focuses on
Education with specialization in the School Stage, and the
secondary major allows students to choose a discipline of their
preference. Admissions for this program will be facilitated
through the National Common Entrance Test (NCET),
conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The
curriculum framework and recommended syllabi are currently
being finalized. Additionally, the National Credit Framework
(NCrF), released on April 10, 2023, offers a structured
framework for the accumulation of credits earned from
academic grades, skill programs, and relevant experiences. In a
bid to foster multidisciplinary and interdisciplinaryresearch,
Delhi University (DU) has introduced innovative programs,
including the BA (Hons.) in Liberal Arts and the MA in
Interdisciplinary Studies. These initiatives aim to promote a
holistic approach to learning and research across diverse fields
of study.
Initiatives For The Optimal Learning Environment In
Higher Education Concerning NEP 2020
Delhi University (DU) has taken a significant step by
introducing the teaching of all Indian languages listed in the 8th
schedule of our Constitution. Furthermore, DU has made a
notable contribution at the national level by spearheading the
translation of engineering course materials into 11 Indian
languages. These materials, hosted on the ‘Swayam' portal by
the Ministry of Education, lay the groundwork for delivering
education in sciences, engineering, and medical sciences in
regional languages. Delhi University has initiated a year
undergraduate programme. The National Digital Education
Architecture (NDEAR) and National Education Technology
Forum (NETF) were launched in 2021. In 2021, the NCERT
launched NISHTHA 2.0, a comprehensive teacher training
program. Additionally, the UGC has collaborated with the
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to
integrate e-resources with their network of over 7.5 lakh
Common Service Centres (CSC) and Special Purpose Vehicle
(SPV) Centres. These courses will be available starting from the
upcoming academic session of 2022- 23.
Initiatives For Internationalization Of Higher Education
Concerning NEP 2020
Delhi University (DU), recognized as one of India's
leading universities, has been a pioneer in implementing the
National Education Policy 2020 (NEP). The university has also
been marked by the establishment of numerous international
collaborations; they have signed MOUs with globally reputed
universities for academic exchange as well as growth. To allow
top universities in the world to operate in India, a legislative
framework for such entry has been 1 framed, operationalizing
Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India will allow
Indian learners to obtain a foreign degree within the comfort of
their home country The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
for setting up of campus of IIT Madras in Zanzibar- Tanzania
has been signed between the Ministry of Education (MoE),
Govt. of India, IIT Madras and Ministry of Education and
Vocational Training (MoEVT) Zanzibar- Tanzania, first-ever
IIT campus to be set up outside India. A Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Ministry of
Education and Abu Dhabi Department of Education and
Knowledge (ADEK), and the Indian Institute of Technology
Delhi (IIT Delhi) to establish 1st campus of IIT Delhi in Abu
Dhabi.
Initiatives For, Equity And Inclusion In Higher Education
Concerning NEP 2020.
Delhi University (DU), has introduced, various
scholarships and fellowships to foster educational access to
students from diverse backgrounds. IIT Guwahati has launched
BSc (Hons) in DS and AI, this program rewards learning
throughout by offering multiple exit optionswith an industry-
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ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
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recognized credential for each year of learning. According to
NEP-2020, the admission process for all universities and
undergraduate Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) will be
streamlined through the National Testing Agency (NTA). This
measure aims to alleviate the burden of multiple overlapping
examinations conducted separately by various HEIs. In 2022,
the National Testing Agency (NTA) initiated the Central
Universities Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate programs
offered by central universities. Additionally, several digital
platforms such as Swayam, MOOCs, NDLI, Swayam Prabha,
e-PG Pathshala, Diksha, and Vidya Daan have proven to be
highly beneficial for both teachers and students. Rajiv Gandhi
University conducts a range of national and international
webinars via digital platforms to enhance the professional
knowledge and skills of its students. Additionally, the
university has hosted over 20 online educational
programs/webinars.
Initiatives for Vocational Education Concerning NEP 2020
In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP)
recommendations for integrating vocational education with
general education and fostering collaboration between industry
and academic institutions, the University Grants Commission
(UGC) has launched an initiative called 8 the "Professor of
Practice." Its objective is to bridge the gap between academia
and industry by integrating professionals, practitioners,
policymakers, and other experts into the academic realm. On
May 16, 2023, the UGC inaugurated the Professor of Practice
portal. This platform serves as a hub where professionals from
diverse fields can register and lend their expertise to the Higher
Education system. Presently, the portal boasts 4255 registered
experts. The ministry has announced that it will launch more
than 100 futuristic higher education programmes in six areas
including automation in Industries, infrastructure connectivity,
electronics manufacturing, digital emerging technologies and
Research and Development. These programmes will be
developed in sync with the National Skills Qualification
Framework (NSQF). As per the Ministry of Education, there
will be a partnership with Indira Gandhi Open University
(IGNOU) for students to help them attain higher education and
more job opportunities. Under the partnership, 32 National Skill
Training Institutes (NSTI) 3,000 and more Government
Industrial Training Institutes (ITI), 500 and more Pradhan
Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKK) and 300 Jan Shikshan
Sansthan (JSS) will be associated with IGNOU as registration
centres for providing courses to the students. University Grants
Commission (UGC) announced that all undergraduate students
in recognized Indian universities will have to compulsorily do
a research internship for eight to ten weeks, to enhance the
employability of students and develop research capabilities.
Major Achievements – Implementation of NEP, 2020 in
Higher Education
The implementation of the National Education Policy
(NEP) 2020 in higher education has led to several significant
achievements. The NEP emphasizes a holistic and
multidisciplinary approach to education. Higher education
institutions have started offering a wider range of courses that
integrate various disciplines, allowing students to develop a
comprehensive understanding of subjects. One of the key
features of NEP 2020 is the emphasis on flexibility and choice
in higher education. Institutions now offer multiple entry and
exit points, allowing students to choose their courses based on
their interests and career goals. This has increased the overall
flexibility of the education system.NEP 2020 promotes research
and innovation in higher education through initiatives such as
setting up research clusters, promoting interdisciplinary
research, and establishing the National Research Foundation
(NRF). This has led to an increase in research activities and
collaborations between institutions and industries. The policy
focuses on improving the quality of higher education by
introducing accreditation frameworks, promoting teacher
training programs, and encouraging institutions to adopt best
practices. This has resulted in higher standards of education
delivery and improved learning outcomes.NEP 2020
emphasizes the integration of technology in higher education
through online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and
digital resources. This has enhanced accessibility to education,
especially for remote and underserved areas. The policy
encourages the internationalization of higher education by
promoting collaborations with foreign universities, facilitating
student and faculty exchange programs, and recognizing
international qualifications. This has broadened the horizons for
students and faculty, fostering a global learning
environment.NEP 2020 emphasizes the development of skills
and competencies among students through vocational
education, internships, and experiential learning. This has
helped in bridging the gap between academia and industry,
making students more employable. Overall, the implementation
of NEP 2020 in higher education has brought about significant
reforms aimed at enhancing the quality, relevance, and
inclusivity of the education system, preparing students to meet
the challenges of the 21st century effectively.
V. SUGGESTIONS TO IMPROVE INDIAN HIGHER
EDUCATION SYSTEM
Improving the Indian higher education system is a
complex and multifaceted task. Here are several suggestions
that could contribute to its enhancement. Update and align the
curriculum with industry requirements and global standards.
Introduce interdisciplinary courses to promote holistic learning
and problem-solving skills. Invest in faculty training programs
to enhance teaching methodologies, research capabilities, and
industry relevance. Encourage collaborations with international
institutions for knowledge exchange. Upgrade infrastructure
including laboratories, libraries, and IT facilities to support
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advanced research and learning methods. Ensure accessibility
for students with disabilities. Implement robust quality
assurance mechanisms through accreditation processes, regular
evaluations, and feedback systems from students and
stakeholders. Encourage research and innovation by providing
grants, incentives, and infrastructure support. Foster
partnerships between academia, industry, and government for
applied research. Leverage technology for online learning,
virtual labs, and digital resources. Promote blended learning
models for flexibility and accessibility.Strengthen ties with
industries through internships, industry-academia
collaborations, and guest lectures to bridge the gap between
academic learning and practical skills.Provide scholarships,
grants, and loans to deserving students to ensure affordability
and promote inclusivity in higher education.Introduce courses
on entrepreneurship, soft skills, and vocational training to
enhance employability and foster an entrepreneurial mindset
among students.Ensure transparent governance, accountability,
and autonomy for institutions to promote innovation, flexibility,
and academic freedom. Encourage international collaborations,
exchange programs, and joint research initiatives to promote
global exposure and diversity in learning experiences.
VI. CONCLUSIONS
The study will evaluate the National Education Policy
(NEP) 2020 and the measures and recommendations it has put
forward for Higher Education Institutions in India. After a
hiatus of over three decades, the policy has emerged as a
tangible strategy to overhaul the current landscape of Higher
Education institutions in India. We are aware of the issues, and
problems faced by the Higher Education Institute in India.
Various pressing issues persist at both rural andurban ends,
including the commercialization of education, challenges
associated with entrance exams, equity and inclusion concerns,
skill development alongside degree attainment, and persistent
unemployment despite acquiring multiple degrees. The
problem of unemployment can be solved if youth are taught to
create employment generation using entrepreneurship. The
study will focus light on the various aspects of Higher
Education Institutions. The study will help to understand the
policy document as well as the steps taken by the Higher
Education Institution to align with the NEP 2020 mandate. NEP
2020 suggests various measures for Higher Education. The
primary objective of NEP 2020 regarding Higher Education is
to elevate the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER). This is crucial for
India, given its burgeoning population. A nation must possess a
well-educated populace capable of addressing unemployment
challenges and supplying the market with a skilled labour force.
Education and skills should go hand in hand so that there is no
problem of unemployment and subsequent problems that are
generated with unemployment.
Unemployment gives rise to crimes and also educated
youth get attracted towards harmful ways to generate quick
money. It is also noticed that more and more young students are
opting for study abroad. NEP 2020 aligns to pave the ways for
the internationalization of higher education which will also help
India to create its place at 8 international levels in imparting
quality education.
The National Education Policy (NEP) in India has several
major recommendations for higher education:
Multidisciplinary Education: Encouraging universities to
offer multidisciplinary education by promoting flexibility in
course combinations and integrating subjects from different
disciplines.
Credit Transfer and Academic Bank of Credits (ABC):
Implementing a credit-based system with the possibility of
transferring credits between institutions and accumulating
them in an Academic Bank of Credits.
Holistic and Multidisciplinary Education: Emphasizing
holistic and multidisciplinary education by integrating
vocational education, humanities, arts, and sciences, with an
increased focus on critical thinking and problem-solving
skills.
Promoting Research and Innovation: Creating a conducive
environment for research and innovation by establishing the
National Research Foundation (NRF) to fund research
projects, promoting collaboration between academia and
industry, and fostering a culture of innovation and
entrepreneurship.
Quality Assurance: Strengthening quality assurance
mechanisms through accreditation, regular audits, and
benchmarking with global standards to ensure the quality of
higher education institutions.
Promoting Technology Integration: Leveraging technology
for teaching, learning, assessment, and administration
through initiatives like the National Educational
Technology Forum (NETF) and promoting online
education.
Flexible Curricula: Allowing students to choose their
courses and design their curriculum according to their
interests and career goals, promotes autonomy and self-
directed learning.
Teacher Training: Enhancing teacher training programs to
improve teaching quality and pedagogical skills, including
continuous professional development and opportunities for
interdisciplinary learning for teachers.
Internationalization: Encouraging international
collaborations, exchange programs, and partnerships with
foreign universities to promote global exposure and enhance
the quality of education.
These recommendations aim to transform the higher
education landscape in India by promoting flexibility,
innovation, quality, and global competitiveness.
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ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24JUL339
IJISRT24JUL339 www.ijisrt.com 685
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