In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Gujarat University has announced a major academic reform for undergraduate students. From the current academic cycle onward, all Semester-6 students—across Arts, Commerce, and Science streams—will be required to complete a 120-hour internship as a mandatory component of their degree program.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, making students more skilled, employable, and industry-ready.
Key Features of the New Internship Requirement
1. Mandatory for All UG Streams: The 120-hour internship applies to:
- BA (Arts)
- BCom (Commerce)
- BSc (Science)
and any other undergraduate courses under Gujarat University’s NEP framework.
2. Flexibility in Internship Arrangement: Gujarat University has allowed two pathways:
A. College-arranged internships:
Colleges may partner with:
- NGOs
- Government departments
- Private companies
- Start-ups
- Research labs
- Community organisations
B. Student-arranged internships (“Self-arranged”): Students may independently secure internships on their own.
Colleges must accept these internships as long as students provide:
- A valid internship certificate,
- Proof of work hours, and
- A brief work report or documentation as per guidelines.
3. Recognition of Pre-existing Practical Work: In a student-friendly move, the university will also accept previous practical/field work experience toward fulfilling the 120-hour requirement if:
- The work was completed within the degree duration
- It meets NEP internship criteria
- The student provides official certification or documentation
Examples include:
- NSS or NCC work
- Research assistance
- Community service projects
- Lab/industry practicals
- Freelance or part-time professional work
- Startup or entrepreneurial activity with proof
4. Part of Academic Credits: The internship is not merely an add-on requirement. It will:
- Carry academic credits under NEP-2020
- Contribute to the student’s final evaluation
- Be reflected in the transcript and grade sheet
Why Gujarat University Introduced This Requirement
1. Alignment With NEP-2020 Vision: NEP stresses:
- Experiential learning
- Hands-on training
- Skill integration
- Industry exposure
- Community engagement
2. Improving Employability: Internship experience gives students:
- Practical knowledge
- Workplace skills
- Professional habits
- Career clarity
3. Strengthening Academia–Industry Linkages: This helps colleges build partnerships with:
- Local businesses
- Corporates
- Government bodies
- NGOs
- Research institutions
4. Encouraging Independent Learning & Initiative: By permitting self-arranged internships, the policy encourages:
- Student responsibility
- Networking
- Real-world confidence
How Students Can Complete the 120-Hour Requirement
1. Through College Placement & Internship Cells: Most colleges will assign students to approved organizations.
2. Self-arranged Internships: Students can approach:
- Companies
- Educational institutions
- Hospitals/labs
- Chartered accountants
- Media houses
- NGOs
- Digital marketing firms
- Start-ups
3. Using Previous Experience: Students can submit certificates for:
- NSS/NCC
- Community service
- Apprenticeships
- Field projects
- Freelancing
- Research assistance
The college will verify whether it meets NEP standards.
Assessment Criteria
Internship performance may be evaluated through:
- Internship certificate (mandatory)
- Attendance details
- Work diary or weekly log
- Supervisor feedback
- Internship report/project
- Viva or presentation
Each college can adapt these as per university guidelines.
Conclusion
Gujarat University’s decision to introduce a mandatory 120-hour internship for Semester-6 students marks a significant shift toward skill-based, practical education envisioned by NEP-2020. By allowing students to self-arrange internships or count valid prior experience, the university has ensured flexibility while maintaining academic rigor.
This reform is expected to greatly enhance student employability, practical exposure, and real-world competencies across all streams.
FAQs
1. Is the 120-hour internship mandatory for all Semester-6 students?
Ans: Yes. Students of all UG streams—Arts, Commerce, Science—must complete it.
2. How many hours must be completed?
Ans: A total of 120 hours, which may be spread across days or weeks depending on the organisation.
3. Can students arrange their own internship?
Ans: Yes. Self-arranged internships are fully accepted if supported by proper certification.
4. Will previous practical experience count?
Ans: Yes. Valid past experience (with proper documents) can be used to fulfil the requirement.
5. What documents are required for completion?
Ans: Internship certificate
- Number of hours completed
- Internship report/logbook
- Supervisor signature (if applicable)
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
