Controller of Examination at the University of Ladakh, Prof. Deskyong Namgyal, visited Government Degree College (GDC) Zanskar, where he met with faculty members and students to discuss the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP)-2020 and its impact on higher education institutions in Ladakh.

Since the NEP 2020 was introduced in Ladakh colleges in 2023, it has brought significant curriculum changes. Prof. Namgyal’s visit aimed to assess the opportunities and challenges NEP 2020 presents to colleges in the region.

GDC Zanskar Principal, Mohd Ishaq, provided an overview of the college, emphasizing the importance of Prof. Namgyal's visit in promoting educational development and highlighting the relevance of NEP 2020.

In his address, Prof. Namgyal described NEP 2020 as a "path-breaking reform" that redefines higher education’s role in empowering students. He emphasized NEP’s goal of fostering skill-based education that prepares students for the evolving job market, enabling them to become versatile, well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in a rapidly changing world. However, he acknowledged that implementing NEP presents certain challenges, particularly for colleges with low enrollment.

Prof. Namgyal explained that while the NEP 2020 implementation is essential, it will require time to streamline. He noted the evolution of the education system, from yearly to semester-based formats, then to the Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS), and now to NEP 2020. "Change is inevitable," he stated, "and we must be prepared to adapt."

To gather first-hand insights, he distributed questionnaires to students and faculty regarding the opportunities and challenges of NEP 2020.

An open discussion followed, allowing faculty members and students to share their experiences and challenges with NEP implementation. During this interaction, Prof. Namgyal emphasized the adoption of a mentor-mentee system to improve student enrollment and support overall development.