Conventional degree programmess to embrace emerging technologies

The Telangana Council of Higher Education initiative aims to equip students with the necessary skills in niche technologies, enhancing the employability quotient of the graduates

Hyderabad: Students will no longer only study history, political science, public administration, commerce, or life science subjects in their undergraduate course curriculum. They are set to embrace subjects, including Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security and Data Science.

As the sectors from businesses, law, and health areas are increasingly influenced by AI, cyber security, and data-driven decisions, the Telangana Council of Higher Education decided to integrate emerging technologies into the undergraduate programmes – BA, BCom, BSc, BBA, and law. The initiative aims to equip students with the necessary skills in niche technologies, enhancing the employability quotient of the graduates.

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The TGCHE, which took up the undergraduate course curriculum revision for the forthcoming academic year, is set to include cutting-edge technologies, such as generative AI, and skill-based learning modules in all programs of BBA, BCom and LLB. Similarly, AI, cyber security and data science modules are being planned for introduction in the BA and social science programmes.

“There is a greater need for integrating emerging technologies with conventional degree education. Apart from awareness, learning niche tech will lead students to better job prospects. Some topics like introduction to AI technology and ethics, AI technology and tools are being explored as part of business, commerce, and law undergraduate education,” said a TGCHE senior official.

In addition, plans are afoot to introduce multiple entry and exit options in conventional undergraduate education. The experts’ committee, constituted to revise the BBA, BCom and Law programmes syllabus, proposed offering flexible pathways for students to pursue the undergraduate programmes.

The committee suggested allowing students to enter and exit academic programmes at various stages, besides facilitating lateral entry for those wishing to switch disciplines or re-enter the education system. This meant students wishing to exit after the first year of study may be granted a certificate in the programme. If a student chooses to exit after the second and third years they may be awarded a diploma and degree.

Further, the committee advocated retaining language courses throughout the three-year undergraduate programmes, ensuring that students continue to develop effective communication skills, a key requirement in today’s professional environment.