HPU opens dual doors for learning

In a significant stride towards implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) has approved a progressive move allowing students to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously. The Standing Committee of the Academic Council granted this approval based on recommendations from a sub-committee constituted by the former Vice-Chancellor on October 27, 2024.

This policy shift aligns with NEP 2020’s vision to create a more flexible, multidisciplinary, and student-centric education system. It aims to break down rigid academic silos and promote lifelong learning through formal and non-formal avenues.

Under the new guidelines, students will be permitted to enroll in two full-time programmes in physical mode, as long as class schedules do not clash. Alternatively, students may pursue one full-time course on campus alongside another in open and distance learning (ODL) or online mode. They can also opt for two online or open and distance learning courses simultaneously.

The courses may be offered by the same or different institutions, but all open and distance learning and online programmes must be recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC), relevant statutory councils, or the Central Government. The HPU has emphasised that all programmes must adhere strictly to existing regulations.

Students must meet the eligibility criteria for both programmes separately, with no relaxation in admission standards. The policy also clearly states that credits earned in one programme cannot be transferred or used toward the completion of the second. Additionally, students enrolled in PhD programmes are not eligible under this dual degree scheme.

To facilitate the dual degree system, students will be accommodated within the existing infrastructure of educational institutions. The multiple entry and exit system introduced under NEP 2020 will also apply to those pursuing two courses.

As per University Grants Commission norms, students enrolling in two academic programmes must register with the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC). They must also submit a formal undertaking, as outlined in the university’s appendix, at the time of admission to the second programme.

The university has clarified that the policy will take effect immediately. However, it will not apply retroactively to students who may have pursued two programmes prior to this formal approval.

Himachal Tribune