The University Grants Commission (UGC) has rolled out a set of guidelines aimed at transforming internships for undergraduates to bridge the gap between academia and industry. These guidelines, detailed on the official UGC website, are geared towards enhancing employability skills and fostering a passion for research among students.

The comprehensive guidelines, a strategic move aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP), have been designed to cultivate competency, capability, and confidence in students. UGC has directed all higher education institutions (HEIs) to actively integrate these guidelines to make students not only job-ready but also instill a sense of enthusiasm for research.

In an official letter addressed to vice-chancellors of universities and principals of colleges, the UGC emphasized that adhering to the internship guidelines can play a pivotal role in helping students develop competency, professional working skills, expertise, and confidence.

"The National Education Policy envisages several transformative initiatives in higher education. These initiatives include delivering opportunities to students for internships with local industries, businesses, artists, crafts persons, etc., as well as research internships with faculty and researchers at their own or other HEIs/research institutions so that students may actively engage with the practical side of their learning and, as a by-product, further improve their employability," stated the UGC in its letter.

As part of the broader vision outlined in the National Education Policy, the UGC is committed to actively reviewing the implementation of these internship guidelines by universities and colleges. This commitment underscores the UGC's dedication to ensuring that HEIs effectively incorporate internships into their academic frameworks, creating a transformative educational experience for students nationwide.

News Source: India Today