Hyderabad: The Telangana Council of Higher Education (TGCHE) is considering a major reform in the curriculum for conventional degree courses, potentially eliminating mandatory language studies in the final year, especially for science programme students. This change, if implemented, will take effect from the next academic year.
The move aims to allow students to dedicate more time to their core subjects during the crucial final year. Expert committees formed by the Council have proposed this modification during a recent review meeting on revamping the undergraduate course structure.
Under the proposed system, students studying languages such as Telugu, Hindi, or Urdu as a second language will no longer be required to continue these studies in their third year. “This initiative seeks to enhance students’ core competencies, particularly in science disciplines,” according to sources from the Council.
This approach is not entirely new to Telangana, as a similar system was in place before 2021. However, language studies were reintroduced in the final year following recommendations from an expert committee at that time.
Reduction in Science Programme Credits
In addition to scrapping final-year language studies, the Council is planning to reduce the credit requirements for science programmes from the current 160 to 145 or 146 credits. The intent is to standardize the credit system across all conventional degree courses offered by universities in the state.
Mandatory Projects for Final-Year Students
Another significant reform being considered is the inclusion of mandatory projects for final-year students. These projects would require students to work in industries or sectors relevant to their fields of study, earning four credits as part of their coursework. This initiative aligns with similar project-based learning methods already implemented in engineering programmes.
To further enhance learning opportunities, degree students may also be allowed to enroll in online courses through platforms like SWAYAM and NPTEL, with earned credits transferable to their degree programmes.
If these proposals are approved, they are expected to bring substantial changes to the undergraduate curriculum, fostering a more focused and industry-relevant education system in Telangana.
