Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has proactively embraced the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, initiating several reforms to align with its vision. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 introduces transformative changes to the higher education system in India. From the academic session, our institution will implement the following key recommendations:

1. Transition to Four-Year Undergraduate (UG) Honors Degree Programs

Starting from the academic session 2023-24, GNDU has restructured its undergraduate programs into a four-year format with multiple entry and exit options:

• Exit after One Year: Award of an Undergraduate Certificate.
• Exit after Two Years: Award of an Undergraduate Diploma.
• Exit after Three Years: Award of a Bachelor’s Degree.
• Completion of Four Years: Award of a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors or Research, contingent upon the completion of a research project.

2. Introduction of Value-Added Courses (VACs)

To promote holistic education, GNDU has integrated three Value-Added Courses into the curriculum:

• First Year: “Drug Abuse: Problem, Management, and Prevention”
• Second Year: “Environmental Studies”
• Third Year: “Human Rights and Constitutional Duties”

Completion of each VAC is mandatory during the respective years of the undergraduate program.

3. Language Courses in Professional Programs

In professional programs where English and Punjabi are taught only in the first year (Semesters 1 and 2), this structure remains unchanged. Credits allocated for language courses in subsequent semesters are reallocated to other subjects.

4. Ability Enhancement Courses (AECs)

Students are required to complete one Ability Enhancement Course each year during the first three years of their undergraduate program. These courses aim to develop competencies such as communication skills, analytical abilities, and digital literacy.

5. Multidisciplinary Courses (MDCs)

To encourage a broad-based education, students must complete one Multidisciplinary Course each year during the first three years. These courses allow exploration of subjects beyond the core discipline, fostering a well-rounded academic experience.

6. Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs)

Students are required to complete one Skill Enhancement Course each year during the first three years. SECs are designed to impart practical skills and knowledge, enhancing employability and entrepreneurial capabilities.

7. Adoption of Credit-Based Evaluation and Grading System

GNDU has implemented a Credit-Based Evaluation and Grading System to enhance the quality of education and bring transparency to the evaluation process. This system incorporates features such as multidisciplinary courses, ability enhancement courses, value-added courses, training/apprenticeship, and research components. online.gndu.ac.in

8. Faculty Involvement in Curriculum Redesign

GNDU faculty members have been actively involved in re-designing the curriculum to align with NEP 2020 guidelines. This includes integrating the choice-based credit system, academic bank of credits, and multiple entry and exit systems into the academic calendar.