UGC Launches Indian Knowledge System Online Course For Students; Classes From July 31

The University Grant Commission (UGC) has introduced a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on the Indian Knowledge System: Concepts and Application. UGC Chief Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar announced the course enrollment on Twitter, stating that classes will commence on July 31, 2023. To provide students with a preview of the courses, Mr. Kumar shared the following URLs:

The online course is structured into three parts, namely engineering, science and technology, and humanities and social sciences. Those interested in participating can register for the course on the official SWAYAM portal, swayam.gov.in.

The Humanities and Social Sciences course aims to explore the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in general, as well as the contributions made by early Indians to philosophy, science, and related applications and concepts. The science course syllabus spans ten weeks and covers various topics such as units of measurement, number systems, arithmetic, astronomy, knowledge frameworks and classifications, linguistics, wellness and psychology, town planning, and architecture.

The online course provides an enriching learning experience through four quadrants, video lectures, tailored reading materials, self-assessment exams, and online discussion forums for doubt-clearing.

Earlier, the UGC had released draft guidelines soliciting suggestions on incorporating the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into higher education syllabi. Universities were instructed to develop programs in accordance with the guidelines. The UGC also requested feedback on the draft guidelines from higher educational institutions (HEIs) by April 30. The guidelines encompass the following key points:

Undergraduate students should be encouraged to pursue a sufficient number of IKS programs, accounting for at least 5% of the total mandated credits. Ideally, these courses should be completed during the first four semesters of the undergraduate program.
Students must undertake a foundational program in IKS to gain an overall understanding of all relevant IKS streams pertaining to their undergraduate course.
Undergraduate teaching institutions are advised to offer a wide range of elective courses in IKS, allowing students to choose the appropriate number of courses and credits.
Students have the option to undertake apprenticeships or internships in any IKS discipline.
During the 7th or 8th semester of the undergraduate course, students are required to select a suitable topic related to IKS for their project work.
Medical undergraduate students are advised to take a credit course in the first year, focusing on the Indian systems of medicine. This will provide them with a fundamental understanding of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Homeopathy, and Siddha. In the second year, students must complete two-semester credit programs in these subjects.

The UGC's initiative aims to integrate the rich Indian Knowledge System into higher education, allowing students to explore and appreciate its diverse aspects.