Northern Zone Vice Chancellors’ Conference on Implementation of NEP 2020 Commences with Enthusiasm at Panjab University

Chandigarh November 22, 2023: Panjab University played host to a two-day Northern Zone Vice Chancellors Conference on the critical theme of "Implementation of NEP 2020," which commenced on November 22, 2023, at the Law Auditorium. This event is being organized by Panjab University Chandigarh in collaboration with University Grants Commission (UGC) and Central University, Haryana. The conference aims to delve into strategies for effectively implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in HEIs.

The proceedings began with a warm welcome extended by Prof Renu Vig, the Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University who also informed that the university is taking all the necessary measures to implement NEP 2020 from the forthcoming session in full spirit. Following this, Professor Tankeshwar Kumar, the Vice-Chancellor of Central University of Haryana outlined the objectives of the workshop, setting the stage for insightful discussions. He informed the participants that the conference is attended by representatives from around 240 HEIs from North India.  

A highlight of the event was the opening remarks by Prof. Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, the Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), who emphasized the paramount importance of the NEP for students and underscored the urgent need for its swift implementation in universities. He highlighted that Higher Education (HE) system is passing through difficult times and NEP 2020 is like a light at the end of the tunnel. He said that the students are eagerly awaiting the benefits that implementation of the NEP bring for them such as multiple entry/exit system, multidisciplinary courses, skill based courses to name a few across the country. He argued that UGC is aware that there are some hurdles or roadblocks too in the swift and effective implementation of NEP such as lack of infrastructure, research ecosystem shortcomings and faculty shortage. He called upon the Vice-Chancellors (VCs) to take responsibility and motivate faculty members and students so that Higher Education system is transformed completely as was envisioned by NEP policy makers. He emphasized on the collective responsibility and effort of all the stakeholders to train the younger generation through NEP 2020 so that India can become a developed nation by 2047.

A short film showcasing UGC initiatives related to the NEP was also presented, providing attendees with a visual insight into the endeavors supporting the policy.

The inaugural address was delivered by Shri Bandaru Dattatraya, the Governor of Haryana, offering a comprehensive perspective on the significance of NEP 2020 in the broader educational landscape. He called upon all the stakeholders and intellectuals to come together to implement the NEP 2020 in its spirit. 

The event concluded with a vote of thanks extended by Professor Rumina Sethi, Dean of University Instruction at Panjab University.

Looking ahead to the second day of the conference, participants were informed that various sessions, designed to facilitate focused discussions, would take place in the first half. The announcement of groups for these sessions marked the conclusion of the first day's proceedings.

Adding a touch of cultural vibrancy, Panjab University organized a captivating cultural program for the esteemed guests, providing a delightful conclusion to the first day of the conference. Over the next day, participants are set to engage in brainstorming sessions, exploring and deliberating on effective strategies for the implementation of NEP 2020. The conference stands as a significant platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration toward the advancement of education in the spirit of the National Education Policy.