The Union Minister for Human Resource Development recently conducted a comprehensive review of the national online education platform SWAYAM and the 32 Direct-to-Home (DTH) Television Education Channels SWAYAM Prabha. The meeting laid out some key decisions regarding the future of this digital education initiative.
Translation to Regional Languages
In order to make SWAYAM Courses and SWAYAM Prabha videos more accessible across the country, plans were announced for the content to be translated into ten regional languages. This translation process is set to be carried out in a time-bound manner, although specific timelines have not yet been revealed.
Acceptance of SWAYAM Credits
Another crucial decision taken during the review was acceptance of SWAYAM credits by universities and institutions. This is to be ensured by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), who will follow up with these educational bodies. This move will allow students to undertake part of their course via Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and part at various colleges.
Incentives for Faculty
To foster an encouraging environment for faculty members to offer more courses under SWAYAM, it has been resolved to grant them appropriate incentives for their career progression. Specific details on what these incentives may encompass are still awaited.
About SWAYAM
The Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM), launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development on July 9, 2017, serves as a united platform and portal for online courses. Covering all subjects pertaining to higher education and skill sector courses, SWAYAM aims to make high-quality education affordable for every student in India. Several academicians from across the country are involved in developing and delivering Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) via SWAYAM, encompassing all disciplines from senior schooling to Post Graduation.
About SWAYAM Prabha
SWAYAM Prabha is a Ministry of Human Resources Development initiative that provides 32 high-quality Educational Channels via DTH throughout India on a 24X7 basis. With a mission to make quality learning resources available even in remote areas where internet accessibility remains a challenge, this initiative offers curriculum-based course content covering a plethora of disciplines using the GSAT-15 satellite for programme telecasts.
About University Grants Commission (UGC)
The UGC, established on December 28, 1953, became a statutory body through an Act of Parliament in 1956. It’s primarily responsible for coordinating, determining and maintaining the standards of teaching, examination and research in university education. The UGC’s head office is located in New Delhi.
This review of SWAYAM and SWAYAM Prabha represents a significant step towards enhancing the digital education landscape within India, by ensuring larger access and recognition of online education.
