At the University of Delhi, students are now allowed to pursue two academic programs simultaneously. The syllabi must exhibit a substantial overlap of 70% or more as per the dual degree programme guidelines. This unique initiative allows students to engage in one program through the traditional full-time physical mode and concurrently enrol in another through the flexible Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.
Recently, the proposal for the dual degree programme successfully secured approval during the academic council meeting. However, it is noteworthy that not all council members agreed unanimously, as some expressed reservations, indicating a notable opposition to this decision.
During the meeting, the dual degree programme was granted the academic council’s approval, marking a significant step forward. Nevertheless, the decision did not escape dissent, with certain council members vocalizing their reservations, highlighting a discernible opposition within the council regarding the proposed dual degree programme.
A major agreement was achieved during a meeting of the University of Delhi’s Academic Council on November 30, 2023. It was decided to proceed with the dual degree programme implementation, which is set to start in the forthcoming semester. This cutting-edge programme seeks to combine traditional and online learning, providing students with a special chance to gain more academic experience within the allotted period.
The idea of twinning degrees—which entail cooperation with specific foreign universities—was also discussed at the meeting. Students at Delhi University would have the opportunity to pursue degrees from these foreign partners through this programme, suggesting a possible broadening of intellectual horizons.
The university formed a committee in December 2022 to investigate the viability of twinning, joint, and dual degree programmes under the National Education Policy 2020 criteria. Following eleven months of discussion, the idea was supported by most council members; nonetheless, 15 members had legitimate reservations.
The main argument was that, given the full-time nature of their academic programmes, providing dual degrees may lessen the importance of the student’s major disciplines. Concerns were also raised over the possible burden on educators and children. Abha Dev Habib, a former member of the Executive Council, stressed that receiving a “quality education” would assist pupils more than earning several degrees.
Despite these reservations, the resolution was ultimately approved. Commencing from the next academic session, undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in pursuing a dual degree can convey their preferences to their respective colleges. The university will delineate the proper procedure, encompassing both in-person and distance-learning models, as previously mentioned.
In the 1016th session of the Academic Council at the University of Delhi, Vice Chancellor Professor Yogesh Singh presided over discussions on various critical aspects of the academic landscape. Among the prominent topics deliberated were the statistics of undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD admissions for the ongoing academic year. This comprehensive review shed light on the diverse student intake across different academic levels.
Additionally, the council examined the modifications implemented in the syllabus for the current academic session. These adjustments were carefully considered, reflecting the dynamic nature of educational requirements and aiming to enhance the overall learning experience for students.
Furthermore, a significant aspect discussed during the session was the recognition of academic achievements through promotions. Within the university, 6115 professors received promotions in total. This recognition highlights the teaching faculty’s important achievements and dedication to academic success.