Cluster University Srinagar Launches Innovative ‘Design Your Degree’ Program in Line with NEP-2020
Srinagar, June 12, 2025: In a significant academic reform initiative aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Cluster University Srinagar formally introduced the ‘Design Your Degree’ (DYD) program — an innovative, interdisciplinary curriculum that empowers students to curate their own academic pathways.
The first interaction with the pioneer batch of students registered for the program was held today, led by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Controller of Examinations Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Mir, and Dean Academics Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz. The program is being launched across Amar Singh College and Government College of Education (IASE), the two key constituent colleges of the university.
Addressing the students, Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Mobin assured full institutional support to ensure the success of the DYD program. “This initiative embodies the true spirit of NEP-2020 — in curriculum design, pedagogy, and assessment. The students entering this program must cultivate the mindset necessary to immerse themselves fully in this innovative academic journey,” he said.
Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Mir, Controller of Examinations, congratulated the enrolled students, calling the DYD a “disruptive and unconventional program” compared to traditional academic models. “This program moves beyond dead theory in classrooms. It integrates real-life challenges into the university ecosystem and is set to be a game changer for learners,” he noted.
Highlighting the academic design, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz emphasized that the DYD program aims to unlock students’ critical and creative capacities through unique, hands-on courses. “From critical thinking and disruptive technologies to digital humanities and problem-solving in everyday life, the curriculum invites real-world challenges into the classroom and encourages knowledge construction through mentorship and practical engagement,” she said.
An official from the university informed that 30 students have already enrolled, and the program will formally commence once the admission formalities are complete. Both Amar Singh College and IASE have been intensively preparing to deliver wide-ranging academic experiences, including ramping up collaborations with leading institutions inside and outside the Union Territory.
“Robust partnerships have been established with multiple institutions, and capacity building of designated mentors is already underway,” the official added, emphasizing the institutional readiness to implement this bold educational reform.
