Chennai, Dec 15 (IANS) In a major step aimed at aligning higher education with evolving industry and regional needs, the Tamil Nadu Higher Education Department has constituted a course review committee to recommend the introduction of new academic programmes across all government arts and science colleges in the state.

A senior official from the department said the move follows a series of representations received from college principals, industrial associations, women’s organisations and members of the public, seeking courses that are more relevant to local economies and emerging employment opportunities.

The initiative is intended to modernise the existing curriculum while improving student employability and enrolment in government colleges.

The Directorate of Collegiate Education will coordinate and monitor the work of the newly formed committee.

According to the official, the course review panel comprises regional joint directors of collegiate education, principals of government colleges and subject experts from various disciplines.

"The committee has been tasked with examining all proposals received and recommending suitable new courses tailored to the needs of individual regions," he said.

A key focus of the panel will be to identify skill gaps in the job market and design programmes that equip students with industry-relevant competencies.

The proposed courses will place a strong emphasis on practical exposure, incorporating mandatory internships, project-based learning and hands-on training as part of the curriculum.

The department also plans to modernise arts and science education by integrating digital skills, soft skills, communication abilities and problem-solving techniques into traditional subjects.

Interdisciplinary programmes, such as combinations of commerce and data analytics, are among the areas being explored to better reflect current workplace demands.

Flexibility for students will be another cornerstone of the reform.

"The new framework will allow students to choose learning pathways and career options in line with the latest industrial requirements," the official said.

The committee will also suggest alternative and research-oriented courses based on the relevance and future potential of each programme.

Officials believe the introduction of region-specific and industry-aligned courses will not only boost student admissions but also significantly enhance employment prospects.

By tailoring programmes to local economic activities, students are expected to find better job opportunities within their own districts.

The panel will also recommend updates to existing courses to ensure they remain in step with rapidly changing industry standards.

The recommendations of the committee are expected to shape the future of undergraduate education in government arts and science colleges across Tamil Nadu.

--IANS

aal/vd