GCU to follow HEC’s new undergraduate policy

LAHORE:Starting from the Fall 2023 semester, Government College University (GCU) Lahore will implement the Higher Education Commission's (HEC) new undergraduate (UG) policy.

One of the most exciting aspects of the new UG policy is the opportunity for GCU students to learn from General Education courses. For example, all students will need to study courses of Natural Sciences; Arts and Humanities; and Social Sciences irrespective of your subject of specialisation. They will all study ICT Applications; Entrepreneurship; Community Engagement as well as Ideology and Constitution of Pakistan within the first two years. As before, they will need to study Islamic Studies and English.

Moreover, they will be able to earn an Associate Degree after just two years of study. This accelerated path not only grants them a recognised qualification but also allows for quicker entry into the job market or further studies.

GCU's UG programmes will now also offer a double-major option, enabling students to pursue degrees in two different disciplines. By expanding their knowledge base and diversifying their skill set, students will enhance their career prospects and become more versatile professionals in the ever-evolving job market.

Prof Dr Asghar Zaidi, Vice Chancellor of GCU, emphasised the transformative impact of this policy shift, emphasising the transition can be seen to be moving away from the British system towards the US system of liberal education. He acknowledged the implementation challenges posed by the prevailing mindset among university administrators, faculty, and potential students, who may not fully grasp the value of liberal arts education and the benefits of a holistic approach.

To ensure a seamless transition, GCU has taken proactive measures to prepare its faculty members for the changes brought about by the new UG policy. The vice-chancellor conducted two orientations, equipping chairpersons and faculty members with the necessary knowledge and understanding to deliver high-quality education aligned with the new policy. Department heads were also entrusted with the responsibility of training teachers within their respective departments.

Recognising the significance of general education courses, GCU has also established the Department of Philosophy and Liberal Arts, overseeing social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, English, and technology courses. The university is committed to implementing an e-learning model to ensure uniform and exceptional teaching standards in the foundational General Education subjects.

GCU has also adjusted its admission policy to align with the new UG policy. Prospective students will now undergo a comprehensive written test, evaluating their fundamental competencies and knowledge related to their intermediate level studies. This assessment will enable students to showcase their skills and make informed decisions regarding their desired field of study. Prof Zaidi emphasised that the implementation of HEC's new UG policy at GCU represents a significant milestone in the institution's commitment to academic excellence and innovation.