Guru Nanak Dev University Mandates 'Basic Knowledge of Sikhism' for All Undergraduate Students
In a significant academic development, the Academic Council of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has officially decided to introduce a compulsory course titled 'Basic Knowledge of Sikhism' for all undergraduate programmes. This landmark decision was announced through a university release issued on Friday, with the new course set to be implemented starting from the academic session 2026–27.
Course Details and Implementation Framework
The newly approved course, which has been meticulously prepared by the university's Guru Nanak studies department, will carry two academic credits. During the crucial Academic Council meeting, which was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Karamjeet Singh, the council gave its formal approval to the recommendations put forward by the Board of Control of the Guru Nanak studies department.
These recommendations had been duly endorsed by the vice-chancellor himself, paving the way for the course's implementation across various departments within the university. According to the official release, the 'Basic Knowledge of Sikhism' course will be delivered through online platforms, with the Directorate of ODL and Online Studies taking charge of the teaching responsibilities.
Additional Academic Reforms and Structural Changes
Beyond the introduction of the mandatory Sikhism course, the Academic Council meeting also addressed other important academic matters. One notable decision involved the renaming of the university's Centre for South Central Asia Studies, which will now be known as the Centre for Central Asia Studies. This change reflects a strategic refinement in the university's academic focus and regional studies framework.
The move to make 'Basic Knowledge of Sikhism' a compulsory subject underscores GNDU's commitment to integrating cultural and religious education within its undergraduate curriculum. By requiring all undergraduate students to complete this two-credit course, the university aims to foster a deeper understanding of Sikhism's principles, history, and cultural significance among its diverse student body.
This initiative represents a thoughtful approach to education that balances traditional academic disciplines with essential cultural literacy, ensuring that graduates leave the university with not only professional expertise but also meaningful insights into one of the world's major religions that has deep roots in the Punjab region.
