Indore: The much-publicised dual degree programme under National Education Policy (NEP) has failed to attract students at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV). Introduced in 2024 academic session, the programme saw fewer than 10 admissions in a year, despite offering the flexibility of pursuing two degrees simultaneously.

University Grants Commission (UGC) had directed all universities to implement the scheme to allow students to combine courses such as BA with BCom or BSc, and even MA with MCom or MBA, to strengthen their academic profiles and improve career prospects. But, administrative hurdles and systemic gaps, prevented smooth implementation.

Students keen to take up dual degrees face a major obstacle in the form of migration and transfer certificate requirements. Once these documents are submitted to an institution, they cannot be used for admission in another, making parallel enrolment nearly impossible. Aligning timetables, a shortage of resources, and a lack of coordination among departments further restricted the programme’s reach.

“I wanted to enrol in two courses, but, the migration certificate requirement stopped me. The system looks good on paper, but in reality, it’s very confusing,” said Riya Sharma, a second-year BA student.

With over 12,000 students across its 33 departments and nearly two lakh in 190 affiliated colleges, DAVV anticipated a strong response. The university even uploaded details of the scheme on its website, highlighting the academic and employment advantages of multidisciplinary study. Yet, the ground reality shows students are hesitant, largely due to procedural complexities and limited awareness.

Experts point out that while the dual degree concept is designed to save time and offer wider career choices, its benefits are being undermined by poor execution. Interestingly, students pursuing one regular degree along with a distance or online programme do not face such restrictions, as those courses allow parallel enrolment without migration certificates.

Acknowledging the challenges, DAVV registrar Prajjwal Khare said, “Some gaps exist, and we are working on them. Until these hurdles are resolved, the dual degree programme — envisioned as a flexible, skill-enhancing opportunity for students — is struggling to gain acceptance on campus.”