Amritsar : Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has announced a sweeping array of new academic programmes and initiatives for the 2025-26 academic session, signaling a bold new direction in higher education. Under the visionary leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, the university is advancing its mission of innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence.
At the heart of these new offerings is the Surjit Patar Centre for Ethical AI, which has introduced pioneering programmes including a B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning and an M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. These courses aim to equip students with the knowledge and ethical grounding to lead in a rapidly evolving AI-driven world.
“Our vision is to shape responsible global citizens ready to contribute to both technological advancement and societal good,” said Prof. Palwinder Singh, Dean of Academic Affairs.
Multidisciplinary Expansion
GNDU’s academic innovation spans diverse fields:
- Department of Architecture: Launch of a Bachelor of Design with specializations in Interior Design, Product Design, and Animation & Graphic Design.
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences: Introduction of a Five-Year Integrated M.Sc. in Environmental Sciences, designed to address critical ecological challenges.
- Department of Computer Science: New Post Graduate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence (PGDAI).
- Department of Hindi: Introduction of a Post Graduate Diploma in Hindi Journalism and certificate courses in Hindi Translation and Creative Writing.
In collaboration with the National Stock Exchange Academy, the University School of Financial Studies will now offer an MBA in Financial Analytics and a Five-Year Integrated M.Com in Data Analytics, preparing students for the future of finance.
Additionally, the Department of Mechanical Engineering has introduced a B.Tech in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Engineering, further reinforcing GNDU’s role in cutting-edge technical education.
Online Learning and Dual Degrees
In a major push towards flexibility and accessibility, GNDU will launch 53 online certificate and diploma programmes. A newly introduced Dual Degree Programme will allow students to pursue a second qualification alongside their primary degree, promoting multidimensional learning.
Student Welfare and Inclusivity
To support research scholars, the university will initiate a fellowship scheme offering ₹8,000 per month to 100 Ph.D. students. On the inclusivity front, GNDU has implemented a 5% reservation for students from Border and Rural Areas, reinforcing its commitment to equitable access to education.
As part of its holistic development initiative, a mandatory Basic First Aid and Emergency Care Course worth 2 academic credits will be introduced for all students. This course will be overseen by the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, ensuring campus-wide awareness of health and safety protocols.
“These initiatives reflect GNDU’s vision of holistic, technology-driven, and socially responsible education,” said Prof. Singh. “We are not just preparing students for jobs—we are nurturing ethical, skilled, and compassionate global citizens.”
With these ambitious academic reforms and initiatives, GNDU is poised to solidify its reputation as a leader in transformative and socially impactful education in India and beyond.
