State education ministers endorse credit framework for skills, choice-based credit system

State education ministers looking after higher and technical education have endorsed the credit framework for skills and the new choice-based credit system guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission recently.

A presentation to this effect was also made on reforms in teacher education and the recently approved regulations of the National Council of Teacher Education for improving the quality of B. Ed. Courses. All states welcomed the initiative.

The conference over which Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani presided was unanimous on the view that the adoption of the system is one of the best ways to bring about changes to meet student aspirations and employment needs.

It was felt that the credit framework for skills would signal respect for skills and vocational courses in mainstream higher education, an initiative that will help change the mind set about vocational education being an inferior option.

The ministers and officials present also felt that the introduction of the choice-based credit system would open up possibilities for students pursuing skills and courses of their choice to enhance their employability.

Irani accepted the suggestion of Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra ministers to set up a joint working group comprising of central and state government nominees to sort out the critical issues in the implementation of the system.

She also agreed to the setting up of a grievance cell in the University Grants Commission to address challenges emanating from its implementation.