Internships are poised to play a crucial role in undergraduate (UG) education as they become an integral part of the curriculum, complete with credits. This move represents a major shift in the way business management and computer application courses are taught, according to the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).
Key Changes in the Curriculum
The new curriculum, currently under development by the AICTE, will introduce several key changes:
- Credit-based internships allowing students to earn credits while gaining industry experience.
- Flexibility to pursue a minor alongside a major, enhancing students’ skill sets.
- Inclusion of cutting-edge technology areas in the curriculum to keep pace with industry demands.
Expert Panel and Launch Date
The model curriculum is being crafted by an expert panel comprising industry professionals and experts from prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and Indian Institute of Technology (IITs). The anticipated launch date for this curriculum is April, marking a significant milestone in UG education.
Importance of Internships
AICTE’s member-secretary emphasizes the importance of internships, stating that they provide invaluable hands-on experience and make students more job-ready. The council plans to allocate credits for internships, although the exact number is still under discussion by the expert committee.
Approval Process and Timeline
The AICTE has streamlined the approval process for UG courses in Computer Applications (BCA) and Management (BBA/BMS) in general institutions. Colleges have until April 1 to apply for approval, with the council adopting an “as is, where is” approach to facilitate smoother integration.
Over 4,000 colleges offering these courses have registered with the AICTE, with approvals expected to be granted by the end of April. This initiative aims to enhance the quality and coordination of technical and management education at the undergraduate level.