Biannual Admission System Set to be explored by DU and Other Colleges from 2024-25
Delhi University and other institutes of Delhi are thinking of a new system. A biannual admission system. This initiative will allow students to apply for admission twice a year. It will provide more flexibility and better resource use. The plan is to start this on a pilot basis for selected courses in the 2024-25 academic session.
Initial Pilot Project
1. Limited Adoption: Since the 2024-25 academic session begins soon. The new system will be piloted in a few selected courses.
2. Purpose: The pilot will help check the feasibility and effectiveness of biannual admissions.
Statements from DU Officials
1. Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh: He praises this biannual admission system. It is a step by the University Grants Commission (UGC). It will prove beneficial for students. But, he notes that full implementation will take time. This is due to the need for more infrastructure.
2. Current Situation: The admissions cycle for 2024-25 is already underway. Hence making immediate implementation is impossible.
3. Future Plan: A pilot project will begin with select courses to test the system’s feasibility.
Other Universities’ Responses
1. Jamia Millia Islamia: Awaiting approvals from statutory bodies. Officiating VC Mohammad Shakeel mentions the potential for its implementation. Also in other courses like PhD programs and pending council directives.
2. Jawaharlal Nehru University: Currently undecided about adopting the biannual admission system.
3. State Universities:
- Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University: VC Mahesh Verma is enthusiastic about this. He sees mutual benefits for students and the institution.
- Ambedkar University: Also plans to adopt the new system.
Private Universities’ Support
Lovely Professional University: Chancellor Ashok Mittal supports the move. He considers it a step towards making education more accessible and flexible.
UGC’s Role
UGC Chief M. Jagadesh Kumar: He announced that Indian universities will start biannual admission cycles. It will start from 2024-25. aligning with global educational standards.
About Delhi University (DU)
- Established: 1922
- Location: New Delhi, India.
- Reputation: One of India’s premier universities. Known for high academic standards and diverse courses.
- Courses Offered: Undergraduate, postgraduate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs. In various fields like Arts, Science, Commerce, and more.
- Affiliated Colleges: Over 80 affiliated colleges and institutions.
- Students: More than 132,000 regular students and 261,000 non-formal students.
Benefits of the Biannual Admission System
1. Flexibility: Students can apply twice a year. It will help in reducing pressure and providing more opportunities.
2. Enhanced Resource Usage: Keeps university resources in continuous use, maximizing their potential.
3. Global Alignment: Aligns Indian universities with global educational standards. It makes them more competitive internationally.
4. Student Preparation: Offers extra preparation time for students. It will help in improving their readiness and performance.
Challenges and Consideration
1. Infrastructure Needs: Extra infrastructure is required to handle the increased student intake.
2. Implementation Time: Full implementation will take time. It is because universities need to adjust their systems and processes.
3. Feasibility Testing: The pilot project will be very crucial. It will help in understanding the practical aspects. Also the challenges of the biannual admission system.
Conclusion
The biannual admission system is a significant step forward for Indian universities. It will help in offering flexibility and better resource utilization. Delhi University and other institutes in the capital are taking cautious steps with a pilot project. The overall response is positive. With time and proper infrastructure, this system has the potential to transform the higher education landscape. It will help in making it more accessible and aligned with global standards.