gave University of Delhi The academic council on Wednesday approved the introduction of one-year postgraduate programs in several departments, even as faculty members expressed concern over both the academic implications and the conduct of the meeting.The newly approved courses will be aligned with the Postgraduate Curriculum Framework 2024 and aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, as the university’s four-year undergraduate program nears completion. Officials indicated that the move is aimed at streamlining postgraduate pathways under the revised education structure.
Through credit flexibility Swayam Clear, Faculty Flag “Significant Academic Implications”
The council also cleared guidelines allowing students to earn up to 5 percent of their total credits through courses offered on SWAYAM and other MOOC platforms. However, the decision was heavily criticized by a section of academics.A dissenting note signed by several faculty members warned of “significant academic implications” arising from the provision. The note also raised procedural concerns, alleging that the meeting’s zero hour, normally used by elected members to raise additional issues, was cut short.“The decision to proceed in a manner that curtails debate and presupposes meaningful engagement with dissenting views reflects a disregard for established democratic norms and collective decision-making,” the note said, as quoted by PTI.
Session adjourned, protest movement administration defends decision.
Monami Sinha, an elected member of the academic council, told PTI that the meeting ended abruptly when concerns were raised over SWAYAM and the MOOC proposal.“We were having a disagreement and the meeting ended abruptly. We have no clarity as to what was finally decided,” Sinha said.Responding to the criticism, Registrar Vikas Gupta maintained that the proposal has been duly approved and will now be placed before the Executive Council of Delhi University for approval as reported by PTI.“Teachers have opposed this proposal. However, we are suggesting to introduce only 5 per cent of total credits through courses and we should encourage students to learn from all kinds of portals that can contribute to their education,” Gupta told PTI.
Semester long program Approval is obtained amid fee concerns.
The Academic Council also approved the proposal to introduce ‘Semester Away Programme’ in collaboration with foreign higher education institutions. According to officials, the move will allow Delhi University students to complete a semester abroad, with the credits earned toward their degree requirements.However, elected members expressed concern that funding for the program could come from student fees, raising questions about access.
pressure for research quality; Departments asked to rank journals
In a move to address the challenges faced by researchers, the Vice-Chancellor directed departments to compile a list of top 20 journals in their respective fields within 30 days.“He said that the departments should establish specific criteria for these journals and assign a point system to them. Based on this evaluation, a priority list of journals will be prepared by giving scores accordingly,” a press statement issued after the meeting said, according to PTI.
Wide range of accredited academic programs in all disciplines
The Council approved several academic programs in the faculties. Acting on the recommendations of its Standing Committee on Academic Affairs, it sanctioned courses in Punjabi, Hindi, English and Sanskrit as well as a two-year MA Philosophy program under the Faculty of Arts.Self-learning materials for the School of Open Learning courses were also approved in line with the Undergraduate Curriculum Framework 2022. Additionally, the Delhi School of Journalism offered programs including Master of Journalism and Mass Communication, M.Sc. Mathematics, and science courses with second semester curriculum as well as Science in Hindi and MA second semester curriculum. SubjectsSuper Specialty DM Courses sanctioned with two seats per year at Lady Hardinge Medical College and Maulana Azad Medical College. The Council also approved the proposal to change the name of ‘Research Council’ to ‘Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Council’.
For expansion plans Distance education From 2027-28
Academic Council approves two year MEd program with 50 seats in Maharshi Valmiki College of Education. It has also given in-principle approval for several undergraduate and postgraduate programs to be offered through distance and online modes from the academic session 2027-28.While the administration framed these decisions as part of ongoing academic reforms, the disagreements recorded during the meeting highlighted ongoing divisions within the university over both policy direction and institutional processes, as reported by PTI.(with inputs from PTI)
