Karnataka implements NCERT syllabus for PUC's three key subjects

In a significant development in Karnataka’s educational landscape, the Department of Pre-University Education has announced its decision to integrate the NCERT (National Council for Educational Research and Training) syllabus for three key subjects in the first Pre-University Course (PUC) curriculum. Beginning this academic year, subjects such as Computer Science, Psychology, and Home Economics will transition from the state curriculum to the NCERT syllabus.

This move, in line with PU guidelines, marks a departure from the traditional state curriculum, with the NCERT text being formally adopted as the official instructional material for the aforementioned subjects. The introduction of the NCERT syllabus will commence with the current first-year PUC cohort and is set to extend to the second year PUC in the subsequent academic year.

Notably, Karnataka has already embraced the NCERT syllabus for science subjects since the academic year 2012-13, encompassing subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Additionally, in the realm of Commerce, students have been studying Economics, Business Studies, and Accounts using NCERT texts.

The inclusion of Computer Science in the NCERT syllabus addresses a longstanding demand within the educational sector, facilitating greater alignment with competitive and entrance exams. Despite the prolonged integration of NCERT syllabi in science and commerce disciplines, the realm of Arts had hitherto relied solely on textbooks curated by the Department of School Education (Pre-Graduation). However, with the incorporation of NCERT syllabi for Psychology and Home Science, the Arts department now joins the trajectory of NCERT integration.

In the previous academic year, a substantial number of students, totaling 2.50 lakh, pursued Computer Science, while 3,400 students opted for Psychology, and 1,200 students delved into Home Science.

As the academic calendar unfolds, Pre-University (PU) classes are slated to commence on June 1st. The initial session will span from June 1st to October 10th, followed by the second session running from October 19th to March 31st, 2025. Summer vacation is scheduled to commence from April 1st.