New Delhi (Commonwealth Union)_ As industries rapidly adopt technological advancements and new fields emerge, universities globally are introducing unconventional degree programmes to prepare students for innovative careers. The higher education sector in India is also evolving to meet the shifting demands of the job market. Institutions across the country are pioneering new disciplines to align with emerging career opportunities and industry requirements.
In July 2020, the Indian government introduced the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at overhauling the nation’s education system. One of NEP 2020’s primary objectives is to make higher education more inclusive, flexible and attuned to 21st-century needs. The policy emphasises interdisciplinary studies, vocational education and technological integration, among other reforms. Four years on, the question arises: are these policy changes being effectively implemented and how are they shaping the direction of India’s higher education sector?
Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Principal Director of Symbiosis Society and Pro-Chancellor of Symbiosis International University, Pune, notes that NEP 2020 is aimed at cultivating a globally competent workforce. She observes that the Indian higher education system has evolved from its traditional foundations to a structure that now addresses contemporary needs. “India’s higher education system is the second largest globally and has become a robust entity catering to the 21st-century requirements,” she remarks. “Our institutions are now recognized among the world-class universities.”
Dr. Yeravdekar emphasises that the focus has shifted from merely expanding access to education to enhancing skills, employability and entrepreneurial capabilities. Sandra Vaz, Joint Course Head of Journalism & Mass Communication at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, concurs, highlighting an increasing demand for critical thinkers and problem solvers. “In response, professional courses now emphasize cognitive thinking and its application in designing user-friendly processes,” Vaz explains. “These approaches have either integrated with existing curricula or have been introduced as entirely new programs tailored to industry needs.”
NEP 2020 encourages interdisciplinary studies and the introduction of new subjects, a trend that Dr. Yeravdekar believes is vital for ensuring students’ employability. “Students today seek specialized skills, leading to the emergence of unconventional disciplines,” she notes. At Symbiosis International University, for instance, new programs include courses in culinary arts, visual arts, and photography, and an MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, catering to the evolving demands of the job market.
Vaz underscores the importance of incorporating soft skills and personal development into academic programs to better prepare students for professional environments. “Critical areas include business communications, executive personality development and emotional management,” she says. She points out that the pandemic and online learning have hindered the development of essential social and communication skills, making it crucial to offer training that addresses these gaps.
The impact of digital advancements on media education is also notable. Vaz highlights how technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, augmented reality and virtual reality have revolutionized media creation, execution and delivery. “These technologies have facilitated more dynamic and efficient operations in the presentation and distribution of communication content,” she notes.
Despite the rise of unconventional disciplines, both experts agree on the enduring importance of liberal arts education. Dr. Yeravdekar advocates for a liberal arts foundation at the undergraduate level to ensure a well-rounded education. “Liberal arts provide a broad base of knowledge and essential citizenship qualities,” she asserts. She cautions against overly specialized skilling at the undergraduate level, emphasizing that a comprehensive education is crucial for holistic development.
Vaz supports this perspective, highlighting the role of liberal arts in fostering critical thinking and addressing broader societal issues. “While specific job skills are valuable, a liberal arts education equips students with knowledge in fields such as economy, polity, governance, sociology, and literary critique, which enhances their overall understanding and adaptability.”
India’s higher education system is undergoing a significant transformation, with leading institutions embracing new programs and technological advancements while maintaining a commitment to well-rounded education. As the country adapts to a dynamic job market, this robust educational foundation is poised to prepare students for success in an ever-evolving world.
