EMPOWERING LEARNERS THROUGH CHOICE: ABC AND THE FUTURE OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION

Abstract

The traditional model of higher education has long been defined by rigid disciplinary boundaries and limited flexibility for students. With the introduction of the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) as part of the National Education Policy 2020 in India, a significant transformation is taking place that reimagines the way learners engage with academic institutions. This chapter examines the ABC framework and how it empowers learners by enabling the accumulation, storage, and transfer of credits across different institutions and subject areas. By allowing students to design a customized academic journey, the ABC promotes innovation, supports holistic personal and professional development, and aligns educational experiences with the changing needs of society and the job market. The chapter also critically explores the practical challenges of implementing ABC, such as ensuring adequate digital infrastructure, regulatory consistency, and faculty readiness, while emphasizing its potential to create a robust and multidisciplinary learning ecosystem.