Karnataka’s Higher Education Minister, Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan, has called upon the Union government to reconsider certain aspects of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, expressing concerns about its practical implementation and potential impact on higher education in the state.
The Minister’s appeal comes amidst growing debate surrounding the NEP’s implementation, particularly in its focus on multidisciplinary education and the restructuring of university systems. Dr. Narayan highlighted specific areas of concern, including the lack of clarity on the funding mechanisms for setting up multidisciplinary universities, the potential burden on existing universities to transition to the new framework, and the impact on the existing faculty and research infrastructure.
He further emphasized the need for a comprehensive and well-coordinated approach to ensure a smooth transition, stating that “a top-down approach without considering the ground realities could lead to chaos and disruption in the higher education system.”
The Minister’s stance reflects a growing sentiment among some states regarding the NEP’s ambitious goals and the need for a more nuanced implementation strategy. The call for a re-look at the policy emphasizes the importance of considering the specific needs and contexts of different states in formulating and executing educational reforms.
The Karnataka government’s position on the NEP serves as a reminder that successful educational reform requires a collaborative and adaptable approach, taking into account the unique challenges and opportunities faced by different states and institutions.
