Context:

Recently, the University Grants Commission (UGC) finalized the ‘Draft Guidelines for Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Higher Education’

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 

RPL is a formal mechanism used to evaluate a person's existing knowledge, skills, and experience gained through formal, non-formal, or informal learning. 

RPL is integral to the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

• NEP 2020 emphasizes the creation of a knowledge society in India to empower citizens in all spheres of life.

National Credit Framework (NCrF) supports RPL by facilitating the creditisation of all learning forms — academic, vocational, and experiential.

• NCrF is an inclusive one single meta-framework to seamlessly integrate the credits earned through school education, higher education and vocational & skill education.

The Key objectives of RPL guidelines in higher education:

• Provide Access to Higher Education: Enable individuals who have acquired competencies through non-formal and informal learning methods to access higher education programs.
• Offer Flexible Pathways: Create diverse and flexible pathways for individuals to access higher education based on their demonstrated competencies.
• Foster Continuous Learning: Promote a culture of continuous learning to equip individuals with updated skills and knowledge.
• Encourage Lifelong Learning: Support lifelong learning to develop a competent and adaptable workforce.
• Enhance Social Inclusion: Promote social inclusion and equity for disadvantaged groups.
• Meet Regulatory Requirements: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements in certain sectors by employing qualified individuals.

University Grants Commission (UGC) 

It is a statutory organization established in 1956 under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

It is established under the University Grants Commission Act and Rules & Regulations Under the Act, 1956.

The UGC`s mandate includes:

• Promoting and coordinating university education.
• Determining and maintaining standards of teaching, examination and research in universities.
• Framing regulations on minimum standards of education.
• Monitoring developments in the field of collegiate and university education; disbursing grants to the universities and colleges.
• Serving as a vital link between the Union and state governments and institutions of higher learning.