UGC Directs Universities to Revamp UG, PG Course Curriculum, to Align with NEP 2020 Goals

Universities have been asked to submit their revised curricula for review by May 31, 2025, with implementation slated for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a directive calling on all Indian universities to undertake a thorough revision of their academic curricula, in line with the transformative goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The announcement, detailed in a letter from UGC Secretary Prof. Manish R. Joshi on April 30, 2025, emphasizes the urgent need to update and implement new curricula across all programs offered by universities and their affiliated colleges, aiming to equip students with skills relevant to a rapidly changing global landscape.

The UGC’s letter highlights the importance of integrating emerging technologies, innovative teaching methods, and multidisciplinary approaches into higher education. It encourages universities to collaborate with stakeholders, including industry experts, students, and academic leaders, to design curricula that reflect current job market needs while fostering critical thinking and global competencies. This directive aligns with the NEP 2020’s emphasis on flexible learning frameworks, such as the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) and multiple entry-exit options, which have been progressively implemented since the policy’s introduction in July 2020.

The curriculum overhaul also builds on the UGC’s 2022 regulations, which enabled Indian universities to partner with foreign institutions for twinning, joint-degree, and dual-degree programs. By incorporating global perspectives while preserving local cultural contexts, the UGC aims to create a balanced educational framework that prepares students for international opportunities without losing sight of India’s socio-cultural heritage.

The letter also stresses the need for skill-based learning, addressing long-standing critiques of outdated syllabi that fail to meet the demands of modern employers.

Universities have until May 31, 2025, to submit their revised curricula for review, with implementation slated for the 2025-2026 academic year. The UGC plans to support this transition through workshops and resources, particularly for institutions with limited capacity. However, the directive has sparked varied reactions online.

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