Degree dilemma: Gujarat University students face uncertainty over honours path

Ahmedabad: Students of arts, commerce and science colleges affiliated to the Gujarat University are mired in confusion regarding the option to pursue a four-year honours degree under the New Education Policy (NEP). Students who enrolled in undergraduate programmes in 2023 are currently appearing for their final semester exams, but clarity on the fourth-year honours option is lacking.Recently, the university issued a circular inviting applications from granted and self-financed colleges willing to offer the fourth year (seventh and eighth semesters) under the BS programme, which includes courses like BBA and BCA. Colleges have been asked to respond by May 11. However, it remains uncertain how many institutions will opt to introduce this additional year.Under the NEP framework, universities were expected to offer both three-year degree programmes and optional four-year honours programmes. Students completing four years would receive an honours degree and become eligible for a one-year postgraduate programme. Despite these provisions, the implementation appears incomplete.Sources indicate that the university currently lacks data on how many students are interested in pursuing the honours year. Additionally, many colleges have reportedly not responded to earlier requests for information regarding their readiness to offer the programme.Colleges are hesitant due to faculty constraints, as extending programmes to four years would require additional teaching staff or increased workload for existing faculty. As a result, the effective implementation of NEP provisions is facing significant challenges, leaving students uncertain about their academic future.