The National Exit Test (NExT) for Ayush is set to debut in 2026, marking a significant shift in the curriculum focused on enhancing students’ clinical skills. This decision, announced by Union Minister of State for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav, follows recommendations from a committee aimed at addressing student concerns regarding the standardization of Ayush education and healthcare.
Implementation Timeline
NExT will apply to students from the 2021-22 academic batch and onward, under the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) and the National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH) Acts, 2020. The committee, led by Professor Sanjeev Sharma, vice-chancellor of the National Institute of Ayurveda, has clarified the timeline, stating that the first NExT exam will be conducted in 2026, despite initial plans for 2024. This adjustment considers the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for uniform examination standards across medical colleges.
Structure and Purpose of NExT
NExT will serve as a mandatory examination for licensing and enrollment in state or national registers, occurring after a one-year internship. The test will evaluate clinical competency, medical ethics, and the ability to manage medico-legal cases for graduates of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Sowa-Rigpa disciplines. Vaidya Jayant Deopujari, chairman of NCISM, emphasizes that the initiative aligns with the NCISM Act and addresses student representation regarding academic challenges due to non-uniform examinations.
Curriculum Modifications
In preparation for NExT, the curriculum for Ayush courses has been revised to include a Competency Based Dynamic Curriculum (CBDC). This holistic approach aims to equip future practitioners with comprehensive skills in preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative healthcare, adhering to Ayush principles. The changes are in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing clinical skill development for students entering the workforce.
Assessment Methods and Academic Duration
To help students prepare for NExT, various assessment methods have been introduced, including viva voce, multiple-choice questions (MCQs), modified essay questions (MEQs), and objective structured clinical examinations. Additionally, the academic year structure has been extended from one year to one and a half years for first-, second-, and third-year students, enhancing the educational experience.
Implementation Challenges
While NExT aims to standardize Ayush education, its implementation will require significant infrastructure and resource management. The need for confidentiality and a fair examination process is paramount to ensure the success of this national exam.
Conclusion
The introduction of NExT for Ayush marks a pivotal moment for clinical education in India. By focusing on comprehensive training and standardized assessment, the initiative seeks to elevate the quality of healthcare professionals in the Ayush system, ultimately benefiting both students and the healthcare sector as a whole.
