Controversy at Delhi University Over Value Addition Courses Schedule

Delhi University (DU) instructed colleges to avoid scheduling two consecutive Value Addition Courses, citing negative impacts on student learning experiences. This directive faced criticism from teachers, who argue it disrupts finalized timetables and infrastructure arrangements. Some also questioned the overall relevance of the courses, demanding prompt policy revisions.

Delhi University (DU) has issued a directive urging colleges to avoid scheduling two consecutive classes of Value Addition Courses (VAC), arguing that such scheduling is detrimental to students' learning experiences.

This announcement has sparked criticism from a group of teachers who claim it will lead to 'chaos' because timetables have already been finalized. VAC courses are intended to enhance students' skills, knowledge, and employability. 'It has come to our attention that colleges are scheduling two classes of Value Addition Courses in immediate succession, which is detrimental to the learning experience of students,' the varsity stated. 'It is advised that the Value Addition Course schedule should not include two consecutive theory or practical classes,' added the notice. Furthermore, the directive stipulated that colleges should not allocate more than two hours for VAC, urging meticulous compliance with these instructions.

Pankaj Garg, chairman of the Indian National Teachers' Congress (INTEC), responded by saying the order would 'create chaos' as timetables and the allocation of VAC papers according to infrastructural facilities are already in place. Garg emphasized that adhering to the circular would complicate things, impacting discipline papers, which are a priority for students. INTEC is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the notification. Abha Deb Habib, secretary of the Left-backed Democratic Teacher's Front, pointed out that decisions on course schedules are made by cluster coordinators appointed by the university, not the colleges themselves.

Delhi University Academic Council member Mithuraaj Dhusiya labeled the changes as merely 'cosmetic.' He stated that both students and teachers have questioned the relevance of VAC courses, emphasizing the need to focus more on discipline-specific specializations. Dhusiya also highlighted the issue of continuous four-hour sessions for Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC), calling for those to revert to their original discipline-specific content.

(With inputs from agencies.)