Imphal: Secretary for Higher Education in the Ministry of Education, Vineet Joshi, on Sunday said that under the National Credit Framework notified by the University Grants Commission (UGC), students can now earn academic credits through sports, skill development and other experiential learning activities.He said the government, through the UGC, has adopted a flexible approach to ensure that skill acquisition is integrated into higher education and translated into academic credits.
During his visit to Bishnupur district in Manipur, where he chaired a review meeting on higher education at the conference hall of the Mini Secretariat Complex, he encouraged educational institutions to explore the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme, which offers students—particularly those from economically weaker sections, two years of internship opportunities supported jointly by the government and private sector companies.
He also urged stakeholders to think innovatively, work collaboratively and make optimal use of initiatives such as the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme, which he said could benefit a large number of students.
Highlighting the growing importance of emerging technologies, Joshi stressed the need to create awareness about Artificial Intelligence. He advised the Deputy Commissioner to organise awareness programmes on AI to ensure students are equipped for future opportunities.
Emphasising entrepreneurship, Joshi said nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset is essential and that a change in outlook must begin at the foundational level.The meeting was attended by Bishnupur Deputy Commissioner Pooja Elangbam, Commissioner (Home) N Ashok Kumar, Commissioner (Higher and Technical Education) N Geoffrey, district-level officers, principals of various colleges, faculty members and students.