AI in business, data analytics, wetland conservation debut as UG courses
Kolkata: Colleges and universities have introduced innovative courses and unique combinations for students to enhance their skills across various fields. With industry demands evolving rapidly, several institutions are embracing future-ready programs in data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business intelligence.
In recent years, traditional core subjects like mathematics, chemistry, and physics saw declining enrolment numbers. However, new interdisciplinary combinations incorporating these fundamental sciences are gaining traction among undergraduate students, offering more practical and career-oriented pathways.
St. Xavier's College introduced data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP), and business intelligence.
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rincipal Dominic Savio said, "Our program encourages students to explore and integrate knowledge across various domains. A strong focus is placed on creativity, critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical values. Students have the flexibility to design their academic paths by choosing from a diverse basket of courses, which include core courses, elective courses, and skill enhancement courses.
We actively promote blended learning approaches and effective use of digital tools to support student engagement and learning outcomes."
St. Xavier's College expanded its curriculum to include multidisciplinary courses spanning both arts and science streams, from wetlands conservation to sports management. The college emphasises holistic development through skill enhancement courses, value-added courses, and ability enhancement courses (AEC).
St Xavier's University also introduced BSc in data analytics and statistics, which includes statistics, mathematics, and data science.
Ramakrishna Mission Residential College (Narendrapur) introduced a comprehensive life science program that includes microbiology, zoology, biotechnology, botany, and physiology, reflecting the growing demand for specialised, industry-relevant education. Principal Swami Ekachittananda said, "This year we introduced life science for the first time, for which 10 seats have been allocated.
Earlier, we didn't have a bio-science stream, but for the last few years, we received numerous feedback prompting us to introduce these subjects which have market demand at present.
" The college has around 180-190 seats for undergraduate courses, which will be increased to accommodate new courses.
Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, is offering data science as a minor subject for students.
Principal Swami Kamalasthananda said, "This is an age where students need to be well-equipped and have clear knowledge of numerous contemporary subjects. In these cases, I observed several students taking advantage of online courses because they have limited time to get an overall idea of the subject.
"
Asutosh College in Kolkata introduced 25 contemporary certificate courses that include wildlife conservation and ecotourism, data management for social sciences, AI for office work, electronic product design, and analysis of pollutants in the environment for both in-house students and others.
Principal Manas Kabi highlighted that these certificate courses have been introduced for students who are eager to enhance their skills in various fields.
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St Xavier's College | Data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business intelligence
St Xavier's University | BSc in data analytics and statistics
Ramakrishna Mission Residential College (Narendrapur) introduced life science that includes microbiology, zoology, biotechnology, botany, and physiology
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