Unlocking the Future: Insights from the VC Meet on NEP 2020 and the Evolution of Indian Universities

The Ministry of Education recently held a Vice Chancellors Conference of Central Universities in Kevadia, Gujarat, on July 10-11, 2025. The event featured key figures like Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Minister of State for Education, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar.

Dr. Majumdar noted how Sardar Patel emphasized unity and education, ideals reflected in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He shared that female enrollment in higher education has risen significantly, from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crore in 2021-22, a substantial 32% increase.

The NEP 2020 fosters innovative changes. For example, it encourages universities to utilize platforms like SWAYAM, where students can earn up to 40% of their credits online. Currently, SWAYAM issues about 9 lakh certificates every year. Additionally, entrance exams like JEE and NEET are now conducted in 13 regional languages, promoting language diversity.

India’s performance in higher education has improved dramatically. The QS World University Rankings for 2026 saw 54 Indian institutions listed, a five-fold increase since 2015. The Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), which allows credit transfers and more flexible learning pathways, has registered over 2.75 crore students from myriad institutions.

Dr. Majumdar expressed that NEP 2020 is a renaissance in education, urging vice chancellors to drive its implementation. He emphasized the need for collaboration with industries and research to boost innovation and ensure opportunities for all learners.

Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary (Higher Education), echoed these sentiments. He highlighted the importance of aligning curricula with real job markets. He stressed that initiatives like SWAYAM should be part of the core academic framework, not just supplementary tools. Inclusivity in education must also be more than a goal; it should be visible in diverse admissions and faculty representation.

Another important point discussed was integrating the Indian Knowledge System and indigenous languages into education. This inclusion not only enriches the curriculum but also strengthens cultural identity.

Central universities are now tasked with refining strategies for a “Developed India by 2047.” Key focus areas include multidisciplinary education, technology integration, and innovations that respect traditional values.

During the two-day conference, various sessions were held, focusing on structural reforms under NEP 2020. Topics included the National Higher Education Qualification Framework (NHEQF) and frameworks for credit transfer, digital learning, and promoting equity in higher education. The discussions drew on personal experiences from university leaders, enriching the dialogue.

On the second day, topics revolved around innovation, capacity building, and quality assurance. Attendees discussed the importance of fostering research ecosystems and enhancing institutional rankings through frameworks like NIRF.

One notable aspect of the conference was its diverse representation, with voices from institutions like Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, showcasing the breadth of India’s educational landscape. The event opened with a yoga session to inspire a holistic approach to education, aligning with NEP 2020’s focus on well-being.

Overall, this conference was a stepping stone toward revolutionizing higher education in India, aligning it with global standards while honoring its rich heritage. The collaborative efforts and insights shared promise a dynamic future for India’s educational ecosystem.



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