• Source:JND
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Starting from the 2025–26 academic session, Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University (CSJMU) has made Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cyber Security compulsory vocational courses for all undergraduate students enrolled in BA, BSc, and BCom programs across its affiliated colleges. The decision aims to equip students with modern technical skills and future-ready knowledge in line with the National Education Policy (NEP).

According to a directive issued by Prof Rajesh Kumar Dwivedi, Director of the College Development Council, AI will be taught in the first semester and Cyber Security in the third semester. Both courses are employment-oriented and part of the university’s broader skill development initiative.

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Each course will carry 100 marks, with 40 marks based on internal assessment—determined through attendance and continuous performance in online classes—and 60 marks from external written examinations. The internal marks will be evaluated by the university.

These courses will be conducted online, and students will be required to pay a nominal fee of Rs 500 for each. Of this, Rs 125 will be allocated to the respective colleges and Rs 375 to the university for managing academic content and delivery.

CSJMU had earlier piloted these courses in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, offering them as optional modules to second and fourth-semester students. However, based on positive feedback and growing demand for digital literacy, the university has now made them mandatory for all students.

Under NEP guidelines, undergraduate students must complete at least four vocational courses worth 12 credits during their degree. With this step, CSJMU aligns itself with national goals while also preparing students to tackle real-world digital and technological challenges.

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Prof Dwivedi said the goal is not only to make students employable but also to create awareness about digital threats and AI innovations, thereby strengthening their readiness for the evolving job market.

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