Math and physics are the two compulsory subjects to take admission in engineering courses. But, the recent decision by AICTE is giving flexibility in the choices of courses to new entrants. According to the latest rule book for the academic year 2021-22, these two foundation courses of engineering are not mandatory anymore.
This might have eased the difficulty of students having no interest in physics and maths or are weaker in these subjects. But, professors across the country have a different opinion about AICTE’s decision and believe that it would not benefit the future engineers in any way.
Read further to know how this step will affect future engineers according to experts.
What Is The New Eligibility Criteria?
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Only students with PCM in 10+2 could take admission in engineering and technology programmes till now. Now those with subjects like agriculture, business studies, computer science, information technology, and even biology are eligible for admission as per the rule book.
Engineering graphics, informatics practices, chemistry, entrepreneurship, electronics, technical vocational subject, and biotechnology are the other subjects from which students can choose. However, they have to choose any three from the following where choosing math and physics is not mandatory.
Furthermore, only those with 45 and above percentage will be eligible for admission. Those in the reserved category should gain at least 40 percent for admission. The handbook further says that engineering drawing, physics, and maths will only be bridge courses for students irrespective of their backgrounds.
Apart from this, diploma students are also eligible for engineering courses irrespective of their backgrounds. The new criteria not only offer wide options to the students but also impact colleges and universities.
According to the AICTE handbook, institutions with an enrollment of more than 50 percentages are allowed to open new courses. This is to limit the opening of new colleges for non-relevant streams.
Impact Of AICTE’s New Handbook On Future Engineers
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AICTE is gaining criticism from academicians and the reason is making the subjects optional which could weaken the foundation of engineering. The Head of the mathematics department from Anna University said mathematics is the base of courses like artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning.
These fields would not benefit students if they don’t know maths, said the professor. Vice-chancellor of the University said, even fields like biotechnology and bioengineering require maths as a core subject that helps in developing analytical thinking in students.
On this chairman of AICTE said, we are only expanding the options and not making it optional.