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K'taka Higher Edu Dept implements recommendations under SEP

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The Government o f Karnataka has taken steps toward reshaping higher education for the academic year 2024-25, based on the recommendations of the interim report of the State Education Policy Commission.

The key points of the government order and its implications for degree programs in the state were issued by the Higher Education Department.

The Karnataka State Education Policy Commission, chaired by Professor Sukhdev Thorat, was established in October 2023 to formulate an inclusive education policy for the state.

This policy aims to enhance enrollment, improve quality, ensure equal access, promote scientific education, boost employability, and instil moral and democratic values among students.

While the Commission is scheduled to deliver its final report in August 2024, an interim report has been submitted with recommendations.

Building upon the National Education Policy implemented in August 2021, the government has issued modifications to the duration and curriculum structure for the academic year 2024-25.

The Thorat Commission conducted consultations with stakeholders, including meetings with vicechancellors, deans, heads of boards of studies, and stakeholders across Karnataka.

Recommendations in the interim report focus on the duration of degrees, curriculum structure, and multiple entry and exit options, guided by principles of equity, social justice, and historical experience.

CHANGES FOR THE 2024-25 ACADEMIC YEAR

Based on the interim report, the government has made the following changes: 

• Undergraduate degree programs will now be three years long, eliminating the option for a four-year program.
• Three alternative curriculum frameworks have been proposed, emphasising majors, specialisation and minors.
• Multiple entry and exit options will be considered later, post-submission of the final report.
• The curriculum aims to provide a broad knowledge base, industry-relevant skills, and region-specific courses, with a focus on autonomy for universities.

Impact on existing batches

• These changes will not affect current students enrolled in 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24, who will continue under existing regulations until graduation.
• The announced changes will only apply to admissions from the academic year 2024-25 onward. Affiliation and admission
• University affiliation and admissions for the academic year 2024-25 will commence immediately, following the new government order.
• Colleges have been instructed to seek clarification from their respective universities regarding the implementation of these changes.