Jawaharlal Nehru University is mulling over a plan to offer undergraduate courses in sciences and humanities with a proposal already having been sent to the UGC for approval.
The university, which currently offers only language courses at the undergraduate level, has submitted a proposal to the University Grants Commission for the setting up of a school of undergraduate studies.
“Under UGC’s Innovation Universities Scheme, we have submitted a proposal for trans-disciplinary research projects along with which we have also suggested starting a school of undergraduate studies,” JNU’s Vice-Chancellor S. K. Sopory said.
“The idea is at its nascent stage and discussions at the university level are in progress over its feasibility,” he said.
The Innovation University Scheme seeks to promote innovative ways of learning and supports bold and big ideas that require substantial assistance and flexibility.
Sopory, however, said the setting up of such a school was possible only if provided with funds.
“There are certain constraints. Undergraduate programmes in the university cannot be started without sufficient funding. We are awaiting UGC’s response,” he said.
Universities found eligible under the Innovation University Scheme could receive grants between Rs 100 crore to Rs 300 crore for a period of five years.