Kohima College, Kohima, successfully hosted a one-day State-Level Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on the theme “Curriculum Planning and Development in Line with NEP 2020.” The programme, organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), brought together 82 participants from various higher education institutions across the state to engage in meaningful dialogue on curriculum transformation in line with the National Education Policy 2020.
The event commenced with the Chairperson’s address by Dr. Ziuziu Iheilung, Assistant Professor of Functional English, who offered a contextual explanation of the National Education Policy 2020. He emphasized that NEP is a transformative and evolving policy that seeks to redefine the Indian education system by focusing on inclusive, flexible, and forward-looking academic frameworks.
In his welcome note, the Principal of Kohima College, Dr. Vitsosie Vupfu, described NEP 2020 as a dynamic educational reform adopted in 2020, which continues to evolve and adapt. He highlighted the importance the policy places on reviving and integrating the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and stressed the need for producing knowledge rooted in indigenous traditions and the local context of the state. He pointed out that with limited common-pool resources, collective academic contributions are necessary for the upliftment of higher education, not just for individual benefit but for the advancement of the college and university system as a whole. Such efforts, he added, will enrich students’ knowledge bases and elevate institutional standards—a true win-win situation. He expressed confidence that the FDP would play a key role in helping faculty shape curriculum ideas and equip themselves better, wishing all participants success in the programme.
The first technical session was delivered by Dr. Neizekhonuo Liezietsu, Assistant Professor at the State College of Teacher Education, Kohima. She explored the concept of curriculum as a comprehensive set of learning experiences designed to achieve specific educational goals. She spoke in detail about the need and significance of curriculum, elaborating on various foundational principles such as learner-centric approaches, psychological and logical sequencing, and the importance of flexibility, creativity, and utility. Dr. Liezietsu walked the participants through the curriculum development process, explaining each phase—planning, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. She emphasized that curriculum development is not a static process but a structured and dynamic one that plays a vital role in shaping the educational experience and ensuring that students are equipped with relevant knowledge and skills.
In the second technical session, Dr. Sandip Ratna, Associate Professor at the State College of Teacher Education, Kohima, offered an in-depth presentation on course design for the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) as envisioned by NEP 2020. He began by comparing the previous academic system with the new structure and provided an overview of key developments introduced in NEP 2020, the Curriculum and Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programmes (CCFYP 2022), and the FYUGP 2023. He explained the shift from marks to credits and grades, and clarified the distinction between major, minor, and elective subjects. Dr. Ratna also discussed credit requirements, program structures, subject choices, and offered examples of course design under FYUGP.
Concluding his session, he offered insightful recommendations tailored to institutions, students, and policymakers. For institutions, he emphasized the importance of clear academic advising and building research guidance capacity at the undergraduate level. To students, he advised beginning with an open mind, exploring interdisciplinary electives, and planning early for research or dual majors, while also utilizing exit options strategically in case of financial or personal constraints. For policymakers, he recommended support for credit transfer, recognition of prior learning, and greater encouragement for collaborative projects, internships, and community-based learning as part of credit-bearing courses.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Assistant Professor in the Department of English. All participants received FDP kits and certificates. The programme was well-received and applauded as a timely initiative to equip educators with the tools and understanding necessary to implement NEP 2020’s ambitious academic reforms effectively.
