Rajasthan University awaiting big reforms in UG and PG courses

JAIPUR: Rajasthan University (RU) is awaiting Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) in its undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

The CBCS was pulled out at the last moment in 2015-16 academic session after months of preparations citing the lack of teachers and infrastructure. The UGC had suggested the universities to adopt CBCS system to improve the quality of education and to make students employable.

The CBCS provides choice for students to select from the prescribed courses—core, elective or minor skill courses. The credit means that a unit by which the course works is measured. It determines the number of hours of instruction required per week. Barring the Rajasthan Technical University in Kota and Jai Narain Vyas University in Jodhpur, none of the state varsities, including Rajasthan University, is ready to introduce the system.

"No doubt, the system is rated as the best in imparting education to students but the university is not prepared for the same. This system requires 100% sanctioned teaching posts along with infrastructure. The total sanctioned posts are 960 against 450 employed at present. Under these circumstances, CBCS is a distinct dream," said RK Kothari, vice chancellor of RU. Kothari informed that he has started the lengthy process for the recruitment of 250 teachers.

Merely recruitment of teachers will not help in creating the environment for CBCS. "The infrastructure is also required, especially new classes. CBCS will require new classes as the number of subject combinations will increase," said Rashmi Jain, vice principal, Maharani's College. It is clear that until teachers are hired, CBCS will not see the light of the day.

CBCS allows students to take up interdisciplinary subjects - core and electives. For example, a master's degree student of political science can opt for sociology or psychology as electives for better understanding of political concepts. The method allows institutes to customise syllabi suiting the interests and needs of students.