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Guidelines for Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff to Foster Quality Education and Holistic Development
The Government of Assam's Higher Education Department has issued an advisory to all the Teaching and Non-Teaching staff of Higher Educational Institutes in Assam, emphasizing the successful implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The advisory aims to create an enabling environment for quality higher education and nurture well-rounded individuals who contribute to society and the nation.
Key Points of the Advisory:
1. Enabling Environment for Quality Education: The Colleges and Universities of Assam are encouraged to create an enabling environment that fosters quality higher education. The focus is on developing knowledgeable, thoughtful, well-rounded, and creative individuals who actively engage in public service and contribute to the nation's progress.
2. Motivating Students and Developing Character: Teachers play a crucial role in motivating students and helping them develop competence in specialized areas of interest. Alongside academic knowledge, teachers are expected to nurture ethical and Constitutional values, intellectual curiosity, scientific temper, creativity, and a spirit of service.
3. Social Sensitivity and Community Engagement: Teachers are urged to create socially sensitive citizens by engaging in social entrepreneurship and community activities. Collaborative development initiatives in adopted settlements, involving students, are encouraged to foster social responsibility and engagement.
4. Holistic Approach to Teaching: Teachers are advised to dedicate time to doubt-clearing sessions, one-to-one discussions on personal life and aspirations, mentoring, and guiding students. Discussions on contemporary concerns, organizational matters, and participation in literary, sports, cultural, and social activities are also encouraged to make students responsible and well-rounded individuals.
5. Personal Accomplishments and Academic Contributions: Teachers are expected to contribute academically significant work that adds to the domain of knowledge and policy. By producing research, publications, and other scholarly work, they contribute to the progress of their field of expertise.
6. Rational Time Management: The advisory emphasizes the rational division of time to meet the guidelines set by the University Grants Commission (UGC). While a minimum of 40 hours per week is recommended, 16 hours are designated for direct classroom teaching. The remaining time should be allocated for personal accomplishment, student-related activities, and institutional progress.
Activities and Time Allocation:
To ensure a balanced and productive environment, the advisory provides a breakdown of activities and time allocation during Winter and Summer Semesters. The suggested activities and their average minimum hours per week are as follows:
1. Teaching classroom and laboratory: 16 hours
The Head of the department ensures appropriate class assignments.
2. Administrative work : 4 hours
Student mentoring, ability enhancement work, exposure visits, and extra-curricular activities.
3. IQAC, NAAC, and other activities at the department/Institute : 6 hours
Academic meetings, lectures, and discussions outside the institution.
4. Extension activities and community outreach: 10 hours
Guidance of UG, PG, and PhD students, sessional examinations, evaluation, and outreach programs.
5. Discussion, self-study, and preparation for class: 6 hours
Total: 40 hours
Note: The departments/institutions may adjust the time allocation based on their specific requirements and constraints. The activities listed are indicative and not exhaustive.
The advisory issued by the Higher Education Department of Assam emphasizes the importance of implementing the National Education Policy 2020 in Higher Education Institutes. It highlights the need for an enabling environment, holistic development of students, social sensitivity, and personal accomplishments by teachers. The guidelines provide a framework for effective time management and workload distribution, ensuring the delivery of quality education and the overall development of students.
