UGC Releases New Internship and Research Guidelines for Undergraduate Courses

UGC has introduced mandatory internship and research internship guidelines for undergraduate students to improve employability, practical exposure and research skills under NEP 2020. 

UGC Releases New Internship Guidelines

University Grants Commission has released detailed guidelines for internship and research internship programmes for undergraduate students in line with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. According to guidelines, internships will help students understand workplace culture, develop professional skills and gain practical learning experience. UGC noted that a large number of graduates prefer internships to gain industry exposure and improve their career opportunities.

Two Types of Internships Introduced

UGC has classified internships into two categories internships for enhancing employability and internships for developing research aptitude. Students can work with industries, research organisations, universities, government bodies, NGOs, start-ups, local businesses and farmers.

This aim to strengthen skills such as teamwork, decision-making and entrepreneurship. Students will also get exposure to emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet of Things and Virtual Reality.

Internship Mandatory After Fourth Semester

UGC has made internships compulsory for undergraduate students after fourth semester. Students enrolled in three year and four year UG degree programmes will have to complete internships of 60 to 120 hours, carrying 2 to 4 academic credits.

For students pursuing four year UG honours with Research programme, a dissertation or research project of 12 credits during eighth semester has been made mandatory. Research work will involve 360 hours along with report submission and viva voce exam.

HEIs Asked to Create Internship Portals

UGC guidelines direct Higher Education Institutions to create internship portals, appoint nodal officers and collaborate with industries and organisations through Memorandums of Understanding. HEIs will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating student performance during internships.