The Government of Sikkim on Monday officially launched the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ushering in a new era of academic opportunity for students across the state. The launch ceremony took place at the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation conference hall and was attended by Education Minister Raju Basnet, Vice Chancellor of Sikkim University Prof. Abhijit Dutta, university deans, senior faculty members, and representatives from various colleges. The event began with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony and Saraswati Vandana, performed by the university’s Department of Music. Professors Satyananda Panda and Yodida Bhutia welcomed the gathering and shared the journey of NEP implementation at Sikkim University. The new undergraduate curriculum was formally released by Registrar Prof. Laxuman Sharma, symbolising a significant leap forward in the state’s academic framework. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Raju Basnet described the FYUP as a “milestone moment” for higher education in Sikkim. “This programme will offer students a broader base of knowledge and better career choices. It prepares them for global competition and aligns Sikkim with national goals in education,” he said.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dutta provided updates on the construction of the university’s permanent campus at Yangyang, revealing that six departments have already shifted. “Approximately 74% of the construction is complete, and financially, 72% of the Rs 1,000 crore project has been covered. We are adhering strictly to Government of India guidelines,” he stated.He also informed the audience that Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the next phase are being submitted and that he plans to meet the President of India—the university’s Visitor—on Monday to seek additional support for the institution’s development.However, Prof. Dutta raised urgent concerns about student safety and campus accessibility. He highlighted the poor condition of the 2.5 km stretch of road from Yangyang market to the campus, and called for immediate state intervention. “We need better road access and a first referral hospital with ICU facilities nearby. In the past, we have lost students due to delays in getting medical care,” he said.
He referenced a recent tragic incident involving a student’s death near the campus, clarifying that it occurred during a private outing on a non-working day. While acknowledging the risk associated with Sikkim’s hilly terrain, he urged parents to counsel their children on responsible behaviour, especially when off-campus.The programme saw participation from several senior officials, including Tenzing Kizom, IAS, and other university heads, who praised the coordination between the state and central governments in making the FYUP rollout successful.