The new national education policy is paving the way for major changes in our universities and colleges that have become graduate factories. UGC has made a number of changes in the the new education policy released by the Centre. Its details have been released for opinion formation. The three-year traditional degree course will be followed by a four-year degree course. Those who have completed four years of graduation can join a research course after completing one year of PG. In effect, this study is equivalent to the current five-year undergraduate and postgraduate course. But four-year undergraduate courses will be of research importance. Many job opportunities will be guaranteed. Another feature is that those who have to discontinue their studies during graduation will receive a certificate and diploma depending on the year of completion of the course. The four-year honors course will be much higher in standard of education than the current three-year degree courses. Students will have the opportunity to choose multiple subjects. A new rule will be created that it should not take more than six years to complete PhD courses. Admission to 60% of research seats will be for NET-JRF qualified candidates. Admission will be on the basis of an entrance examination conducted by the university in 40% of the seats. Colleges with higher grades and ranks will have the opportunity to start four-year undergraduate courses.

Higher education in India is employment oriented. At the same time, students drop out of college with a bachelor 's degree without being able to pursue a career in any field. This is the biggest shortcoming of the education system. The reason why many are unable to gain proficiency in the field of study as well as in the ordinary things in daily life is that they are not familiar with any of these in college life. Even those who pass technical courses lack practical knowledge.

It is generally complained that mother tongue is not given due consideration during the study period. Handling language is a big challenge for our children. A lot of young people have missed out several opportunities as they are not fluent in English. Our academics are not yet convinced of the need to include spoken English in the syllabus, at least from the fifth grade onwards. No four-year degree course has been started at any university in the state so far. With the new regulation of UGC coming into force from next academic year, preparations have to be started in the state as well.

Eight states, including Kerala, have not yet approved the school curriculum structure. Delay in approval might also delay the implementation of the new NEP. Kerala, which tops in literacy, should be at the forefront of education reforms accordingly.