In a major overhaul of India’s education system under the New Education Policy, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will be bringing significant reforms, UGC Chairman Professor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar said in an interview to ABP Live. The changes include the introduction of an open-book examination system in higher education and a series of reforms aimed at modernising the CBSE’s evaluation methods.
Professor Kumar also shed light on the educational transformation in Jammu and Kashmir following the repeal of Article 370, emphasising the establishment of top-tier institutions in the region, which signify a leap in its educational development.
“Since the revocation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed remarkable transformations in its educational landscape. Notably, prestigious institutions like IIMs, IITs, and AIIMS have emerged in the region, marking a significant stride in educational development. Funding under the Usha Scheme is instrumental in bolstering the infrastructure of universities,” he said.
There has been a big surge in students appearing for CET from Jammu and Kashmir, which witnessed a sevenfold increase last year. Prof. Kumar said the “unprecedented rise underscores the region’s eagerness for educational opportunities,” adding that these changes signal a promising future for education in Jammu and Kashmir.
Open-Book System To Be Extended To Universities Too
Prof. Kumar also spoke about the sweeping reforms introduced in the CBSE system by the New Education Policy, offering students the flexibility to undertake exams twice yearly and choose the best scores to further their academic pursuits, and also introducing the open-book examination system at premier institutions like IITs and IIMs.
“Students will now have the opportunity to take exams twice a year and utilise the better scores,” he said. Additionally, the policy focuses on the integration of vocational education, enhancing students’ practical skills and employability. Highlighting the implementation of open-book system in IITs and IIMs, Prof. Kumar said a committee would be constituted to extend the system to universities too.
“General guidelines will ensure the seamless adoption of open-book exams as an alternative assessment method.”