Compulsory training on Indian Knowledge Systems for college faculty: UGC draft guidelines

NEW DELHI: University and college faculty will now have to attend mandatory training on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), according to the University Grants Commission (UGC) draft guidelines. The commission has also invited suggestions and asked to send feedback before December 28, 2022.

The UGC guideline for faculty training on IKS has been issued to facilitate a seamless integration of traditional knowledge with modern subjects, the notice read. The faculty training will include topics on Dharmashastras, Shukraniti, Mahabharata, and Arthashastra and Chemistry in practice as gleaned from the medical schools of ancient India.

The IKS guidelines will be a part of the training modules under “Malviya Mission” and will be considered under Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) scheme as per the UGC regulations.

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“The faculty are required to attend a mandatory induction program and periodic refresher courses for their continued professional advancement,” the guidelines said.

The UGC further said that the purpose of these guidelines for teacher training during the induction program and refresher courses is to provide a roadmap to familiarize and enthuse faculty about the IKS and identify strategies to incorporate it into their specific classroom teachings. The IKS Induction programme will be of 30 hours in a 10-10-10 format, it said.