The Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, has set a milestone by becoming the first institution in Himachal Pradesh to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. With innovative steps toward student-centric education, the university has introduced multiple exit options and digital learning advancements.
Multiple Exit System
The university now offers students flexibility in completing their academic programs with a tiered certification system:
- 1 Year: Certificate
- 2 Years: Diploma
- 3 Years: Degree
- 4 Years: Honours Degree
The B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture program has been restructured in alignment with NEP 2020 guidelines from the current academic session. Vice Chancellor Prof. Naveen Kumar emphasized that these measures aim to make education more accessible, flexible, and practical for students.
Digital Advancements
As part of the NEP 2020 implementation, the university has adopted the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) system. Key achievements include:
- Digitization of 3,030 credit records for 1,023 students.
- Integration of academic records into DigiLocker for secure and easy access.
- Creation of Automated Permanent Account Registry (APAR) IDs for approximately 1,500 students to enhance digital operations.
Remote Learning Resources
The university has expanded its digital library infrastructure, enabling students and researchers to access e-books, e-journals, and other e-learning materials remotely. This promotes flexible and seamless learning opportunities for students from any location.
NEP 2020 Goals
The National Education Policy 2020, introduced by the Government of India, focuses on creating a globally competitive and inclusive education system. Its highlights include:
- Multiple Entry and Exit Points: Students can re-enter education without losing prior credits.
- Digital Literacy: Integration of technology for learning and record-keeping.
- Experiential and Multidisciplinary Learning: Equipping students with skills relevant to the evolving job market.
The steps taken by Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University demonstrate its commitment to fostering a modern education system that prioritizes flexibility, accessibility, and digital integration.
