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The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to transform India’s education system, moving away from colonial frameworks.
Some critics argue against the reforms proposed by NEP 2020, particularly regarding the flexibility and adaptability of higher education.
Critics’ resistance to the NEP highlights a disconnect with contemporary educational and societal needs.
National Credit Framework (NCrF)
According to the framework, an academic year will be defined by the number of hours a student puts in and credits will be provided to them accordingly at the end of each academic year.
NCrF is a meta-framework that consists of three verticals:
National School Education Qualification Framework (NSEQF)
National Higher Education Qualification Framework (NHEQF), and
National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)
Credit System:
The total 'Notional Learning hours in a year' for assignment of Credits will be 1200 hours.
A minimum of 40 credits may be earned for 1200 hours of learning every year with 20 credits per semester of six months
Notional hours refer to the time that the average student would need to attend all classes, study for tests and do assignments and homework.
The total credits earned by a student during the entire schooling period will be 160 credits.
By the end of a three-year bachelor's degree course, the student will have earned 120 credits.
When a student completes a Ph.D., the earned credits would be 320.
Students will also get credits for participating in Olympiads, science quizzes, internships, and taking up jobs while they are studying in college.
Credit Levels:
The NCrF has proposed several levels within this framework ranging from level 1 to level 8.
The credit level that can be attained after completion of school education (upto level 4) i.e.,
grade 5th will be level 1,
grade 8th will be level 2,
grade 10th will be level 3
grade 12th will be level 4.
Higher education shall be from credit levels of 4.5 to level 8.
For vocational education & training level 1 to level 8.
Aadhaar-Enabled Student Registration:
An Aadhaar-enabled student registration will take place.
After student registration, an Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) account will be opened.
The deposit of degree and credits will take place in those accounts. There will be a knowledge locker along the lines of DigiLocker.
The NCrF serves as an enabling rather than regulatory framework, promoting autonomy for institutions.
Benefits of the NCrF
Students can earn credits through diverse activities, including classroom learning, internships, sports, arts, and community service.
The NCrF helps institutions stay relevant to evolving job requirements by revising curricula to meet current and future demands.
By integrating skill training with academic pursuits, the NCrF prepares students for emerging roles and self-employment opportunities.
The framework supports a more inclusive approach, making education accessible and equitable for a broader demographic.
The NCrF promotes continuous education, allowing students to pursue learning beyond traditional degree programs.
Way Forward
Higher education institutions (HEIs) must adapt to changing circumstances to avoid stagnation and enhance their relevance.
Emphasizing vocational and skill training alongside research and knowledge production is essential for holistic development.
Integrating flexibility and skill-based courses is vital for transforming India into a competitive economic and technological leader.
higher education institutions (HEIs) should collaborate with industries and communities to align educational outcomes with real-world needs.
Implementing robust mechanisms to assess the effectiveness of the NCrF and ensure it meets the evolving educational landscape.
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