Curriculum Updates

DU Enhances Digital Access with ₹65.7 Crore Wi-Fi Upgrade and Fully Digitised Library

Major Infrastructure Upgrades Announced by Delhi University, ₹1,900 Crore Projects Underway

The Executive Council of Delhi University reportedly approved a series of major academic and infrastructural proposals during its meeting held on 12 July, including some controversial changes to the curriculum. Among the most debated decisions was the removal of postgraduate Political Science papers related to Pakistan, Islam, and China revisions that had earlier been cleared by the Academic Council on 5 June, despite notable internal dissent.

According to sources, Executive Council member Mithuraaj Dhusiya expressed concerns over how these changes were introduced. He reportedly alleged that significant alterations were being made to courses even before they reached the Academic Council, thereby bypassing established academic processes and undermining transparency. Chaired by Vice Chancellor Professor Yogesh Singh, the meeting also confirmed the appointment of Professor Rajni Abbi as the new director of Delhi University’s South Campus. The vice chancellor further stated that the university was fully prepared for the implementation of the fourth year of undergraduate studies under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, scheduled to commence from the 2025–26 academic session. He noted that more than 60% of undergraduate students were expected to opt for the additional year.

Addressing concerns regarding faculty availability, Professor Singh clarified that regular teachers would be responsible for teaching the fourth-year courses, while guest lecturers might assist at junior levels. He also assured that adequate compensation would be provided to faculty and non-teaching staff for their additional duties. Furthermore, he highlighted substantial digital advancements, including the enhancement of Wi-Fi infrastructure at a cost of ₹65.71 crore, and the complete digitisation of the university library, which now provides 24/7 access to over two lakh e-books and journals. To promote entrepreneurship, he urged college principals to establish startup incubators and register Section-8 companies.

In terms of physical infrastructure, the vice chancellor informed the council that 17 construction projects were currently underway, valued at ₹1,912.15 crore, with ₹329 crore already disbursed. These include a new WUS Health Centre, a computer centre on North Campus, and the vertical expansion of the science block and the Social Centre School Building in Maurice Nagar. Additional approvals were granted for a Cultural Activity Centre near Shankar Lal Hall, a new academic building at the SP Jain parking area in South Campus, and the construction of hostels for girls and working women at the Dhaka campus, alongside extensions to existing hostels in South Campus.

Following reports of structural damage to buildings on the Dhaka campus in Mukherjee Nagar, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has initiated a structural audit. Based on the findings, reconstruction and retrofitting will be undertaken in a phased manner to ensure safety in hostels and staff residences. The Executive Council also approved the installation of solar power plants on both North and South campuses, to be implemented under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model in collaboration with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), following the university’s operational norms.

As part of its efforts to commemorate notable figures, the university has invited proposals to develop a garden in honour of Dr B.R. Ambedkar within the Faculty of Social Sciences, and to rename an auditorium after him. Additionally, a committee has been constituted to examine the feasibility of introducing a sports scholarship in the name of late Union minister and Delhi University alumnus Arun Jaitley. Concluding the meeting, Professor Singh highlighted Delhi University’s progress in international rankings. He noted that the university has secured 30th place globally for employment outcomes, an improvement of 14 places and currently stands at 328th overall in the QS World University Rankings 2026, ranking seventh among Indian institutions. With a combination of academic reform, infrastructural growth, and international recognition, Delhi University continues its efforts towards holistic institutional advancement.

 

Editor’s Note:

Delhi University’s recent Executive Council meeting showcased a series of wide-ranging reforms aimed at enhancing both academic and infrastructural aspects of the institution. From approving controversial syllabus changes to confirming new leadership appointments, the council addressed several significant issues. While the removal of certain Political Science papers sparked debate, the university leadership defended the changes as part of a broader academic restructuring aligned with national education goals. Plans to implement the fourth year of undergraduate studies under NEP 2020 were also underlined, with assurances of adequate faculty support and digital infrastructure to meet evolving student needs. Equally important were the university’s steps toward improving physical infrastructure and promoting innovation. With 17 major construction projects underway and upgrades to campus facilities such as libraries, hostels, and health centres, the university aims to offer a more modern and student-friendly environment. Initiatives such as startup incubators, solar energy installations, and proposed scholarships in honour of notable public figures reflect DU’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and future readiness.

Skoobuzz underlines that together, these developments signal a clear intention to position Delhi University as a forward-looking institution responsive to both national priorities and global benchmarks.