UGC drafts guidelines for introducing skill-based courses, micro-credentials in HEIs

NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has drafted guidelines for the introduction of skill-based courses, micro-credentials in higher education institutions along with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for implementation of the courses and credentials.

The skill-based courses will provide a path for continuous professional development and personal growth, the commission said. “Undertaking skill-based courses/micro-credentials has the potential to increase productivity at work, thereby supporting economic growth through a qualified workforce,” it stated.

All students enrolled in a programme at any college or university are eligible to undertake skill-based courses or microcredentials. These courses can be pursued either as domain-specific credits, cross-domain, other disciplines or employability enhancement courses.

The maximum credit accumulation allowed through skill-based courses or micro-credentials should not exceed 50% of the total credits required for the award of a degree in general universities, as per the UGC guidelines.

Also read UGC guidelines on ‘recognition of prior learning’ allows hobbies, internships to carry credits

Skill-based courses

The skill-based courses will comprise the following components:

• Lectures, theory, assignments
• Practical or hands-on skill training
• Internship or project work
• Apprenticeship or shop-floor training
• On the Job Training (OJT).
• Mandatory assessments
• Credit assignment and transfer to ABC

The colleges and universities can implement the skill-based courses and microcredentials through a partnership with any of the following:

• Government Centre of Excellence/ Training Centers of repute established by Government of India/ State Governments/PSUs/Autonomous bodies of Ministries
• Indian Enterprises of repute or MNCs
• An Industry partner or business establishment (e.g. Skillbased internship, OJT or apprenticeship)
• A recognized awarding body of NCVET including Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) through their affiliated training centres subject to meeting the standards set in these guidelines.
• If specialized infrastructure is required, the HEI may collaborate with external skilling facilities such as Industry Associations, Industry Centers of Excellence, Technology Parks, Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and Research Institutions etc.

Additionally, the courses can be offered and assessed in physical, online, hybrid or blended modes, based on approval from statutory bodies and the provisions in these guidelines.