Implementation of NEP-2020 Across All Undergraduate Programmes at University of Allahabad
The University of Allahabad has taken a major step towards aligning its academic structure with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020. The Academic Council, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof Sangita Srivastava, convened a meeting at the Senate Hall’s North Hall and formally approved the implementation of the NEP across all undergraduate programmes. This decision marks a significant shift in the university’s approach to higher education.
Under the new framework, all undergraduate programmes across the faculties of Arts, Science, and Commerce will follow a revised structure based on the NEP guidelines. New students joining from this academic session will be enrolled in a 4-year Honours with Research Degree Programme spread over eight semesters. However, existing students will continue to follow the previous format for their undergraduate courses.
This initiative represents the second phase of NEP implementation at the university. Earlier, the university had introduced six integrated programmes three years ago, including 5-year BA-LLB, 5-year Integrated BTech MTech in Computer Science, 5-year integrated UG-PG in Commerce, 4-year Integrated BFA, 5-year Integrated UG-PG in Family and Community Science, and a 4-year course in BPA.
Flexible Structure and Multiple Exit Options
One of the key features of the newly approved academic framework is its flexibility. Students will have multiple entry and exit options as per NEP guidelines. They can earn a certificate after the first year if they decide to leave the programme, a diploma after the second year, a regular degree after the third year, and an Honours degree after completing the fourth year. The entire programme will carry a total credit load of 160 credits, with 20 credits assigned to each semester.
Students will also have the option to select two major subjects and one minor subject at the beginning of the programme. The minor will be taught in the first four semesters, after which it will be dropped. From the fifth semester onwards, students will focus on their major subjects. In the final year, based on merit, they will pursue Honours in one of the major subjects.
Holistic Development and Industry Relevance
The revised curriculum aims to go beyond traditional classroom teaching to promote holistic personality development and enhance employability. It aligns with the NEP’s emphasis on industry relevance by incorporating components such as Indian Knowledge Systems, discipline-specific electives, ability enhancement courses, and value-added courses. These offerings are open to students across all streams.
Over the past four and a half years, the university has focused on infrastructure improvements, including upgraded sports facilities and the establishment of two modern language laboratories for foreign and Indian languages. Additionally, new skill-based courses have been introduced in performing arts, fine arts, and fashion designing.
Diverse Elective Courses
The curriculum expansion under NEP includes over 150 new elective courses across diverse domains. These 2-credit electives cover a wide range of topics, from sports training in Hockey, Cricket, and Badminton, to sports analytics, baking, food processing, fabric painting, and regional cuisines like South Indian and Chinese cooking.
Students can also choose electives in music, folk arts, instrumental training, and philosophical studies such as Dharma Shastra and the Upanishads. Modern offerings include computer languages, creative writing, poetry recitation, personality development, and public speaking.
All electives will carry a nominal fee and will be accessible to all students regardless of their primary discipline. Moreover, students may opt to enroll in skill courses through government-recognized platforms such as NPTEL, SWAYAM, and MOOCs as part of their learning journey.
