Induction prog must for college freshers: UGC

Such programmes should be held in order to develop a sense of belonging in students and help acclimatise them with the new surroundings, and develop bond with fellow students and teachers as the transition from secondary schooling to undergraduate programme requires the institution’s support.

The UGC had recently released ‘Deeksharambh’, a guide to student induction programme. But most colleges here do not follow the guidance. At present only a few institutions, including Anna University, conducts induction programme, said a senior official from Higher Education Department, adding that instructions have now been given to all colleges to mandatorily conduct it from the current academic year.

“The list of activities in the induction programme includes physical activity, mentoring, familiarisation with the department, creative arts and culture, literary activity, lectures by eminent people, visits to local area and extra-curricular activities in college,” the official added.

The official said activities during the induction programme would have an initial and regular phases. For every 10 freshmen, there would be a senior student as guide, and for a group of 20 students, there would be a faculty mentor. “Such a group should remain for the entire duration of stay of the student in the college,” he said.