Editor Mr.Mayank Rawat ( Chief Editor Mr. Rohit Mishra )
New Delhi: A recent survey conducted by Lady Shri Ram College (LSR) has revealed that while the majority of students are optimistic and aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, significant gaps remain in awareness and clarity, particularly around implementation, tools and the structure of the fourth year of undergraduate studies.
In response, LSR has rolled out a set of initiatives to institutionalise the transition to NEP and bridge the knowledge gap.
Acting principal professor Kanika Ahuja said: “The vision of NEP, as articulated by the vice-chancellor Yogesh Singh, is extremely progressive and laudable. Its success hinges on colleges aligning with its objectives. At LSR, our approach has been to listen closely to what students and faculty need in order to navigate the NEP effectively, and to respond with systems that make the transition both meaningful and manageable.”
Backed by the Dr Bharat Ram Grant, two faculty members — Dr Jyoti Darbari and Dr Ujjayini Ray — along with 11 student researchers, conducted the study, titled “An Analytical Study of Barriers and Enablers towards Implementation of NEP in Higher Educational Institutions.” The findings are now informing the college’s next steps.
The internal survey, involving 695 students across disciplines, showed that nearly 80% of respondents had a reasonably clear understanding of the NEP’s objectives, structure and assessment criteria. An encouraging 85% expressed satisfaction with the NEP’s vision, stating that it aligned with their academic and career aspirations. Students particularly appreciated the emphasis on skill enhancement, internships and holistic development.
However, approximately 30-34% students reported being undecided or neutral on key aspects, such as the value of multiple entry and exit options. Notably, 27% of students were unsure whether they would exercise those options if given the chance.
Despite the positive outlook, the survey flagged critical areas of concern. Over 70% of respondents expressed the need for more orientation programmes to demystify NEP pathways. A worrying number of students remained unaware of key initiatives like the Academic Bank of Credits and the National Scholarship Portal — tools designed to enhance flexibility and access under NEP.
Marking the start of its fourth year of NEP implementation, LSR hosted a focused workshop featuring professor K Ratnabali, dean of academic affairs at Delhi University. Her session on “Prospects and Possibilities of a 4-Year Undergraduate Degree” offered insights into the three proposed tracks — honours with research, honours with projects, and honours with entrepreneurship. The overwhelming response from students and faculty has prompted LSR to plan follow-up workshops and teacher training modules on AI in education, pedagogy reform, and digital assessment strategies.
Mayank Rawat
