UGC urges HEIs to implement environmental education in undergraduate programmes

NEW DELHI: In a recent notice dated September 23, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has requested all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to implement the UGC guidelines and curriculum framework for environmental education at the undergraduate level. This directive is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the mandate of the SC of India, reinforcing the importance of integrating environmental studies into all undergraduate courses.

The UGC's notice follows an earlier communication dated June 5, which introduced the guidelines. The curriculum aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues such as climate change, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.

Innovative teaching methods

The commission has also encouraged institutions to adopt innovative teaching methods, such as team teaching, to enhance the learning experience and make the course more engaging for students. The detailed guidelines and curriculum are available on the UGC website for reference. The UGC highlights that this education is crucial for preparing students to tackle contemporary environmental challenges, ensuring that they contribute to a more sustainable future.

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Curriculum framework for environment education

The curriculum framework for environment education at UG level

The course is assigned a total of 4 credits. According to the UGC curriculum and credit framework for UG programmes, one credit of tutorial work involves one hour of engagement per week. For a semester lasting 15 weeks, one credit tutorial equates to 15 hours of engagement.

Credit calculation for practicum, lab work

For courses involving practicum, lab work, community engagement, or fieldwork, one credit requires a two-hour weekly engagement. Over a 15-week semester, this translates to 30 hours of student involvement. While the credit distribution is suggestive, HEIs have the flexibility to determine credits and their allocation across 6 to 8 semesters to meet the minimum credit requirements.