UGC Urges Higher Education Institutions to Implement Dual Enrollment Guidelines for Students

• 24 Nov 2024

UGC Urges Higher Education Institutions to Implement Dual Enrollment Guidelines for Students

 

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has urged Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to implement new guidelines that would allow students to enroll in two academic programs simultaneously. In a letter dated November 20, 2024, UGC Secretary Professor Manish R. Joshi addressed the challenges faced by students due to the requirement for migration or school leaving certificates during admissions.

 

He pointed out that this stipulation restricts students from pursuing dual programs, ultimately undermining the objectives of the guidelines. Despite the fact that these guidelines were issued two years ago, many universities have yet to fully comply, despite repeated reminders.

Key Provisions of the Guidelines:

 

• Students are allowed to pursue two full-time courses, provided that their class schedules do not overlap.
• Dual enrollment is permitted when one course is pursued full-time in a physical mode and the other through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or online.
• Only UGC-recognized institutions can offer degree or diploma programs through ODL or online modes.
• The guidelines do not apply to PhD programs and will take effect prospectively from the date of the notification.

 

Objectives of Dual Enrollment:

 

• The initiative aims to foster multidisciplinary education, remove rigid subject barriers, and support holistic development.
• It allows students to explore specialized fields while also focusing on character development, ethical values, and intellectual curiosity.
• The guidelines seek to prepare individuals for meaningful careers and promote economic independence.
• The UGC’s appeal emphasizes the need for HEIs to comply with these guidelines, as their adherence is crucial to ensuring that students can fully benefit from this transformative educational policy.