St Xavier's University, New Town, kolkata has decided to introduce courses in statistics and computer science from 2022 based on feedback from those working in industry, academics, parents and students.

The courses with specialisation in data analytics would be introduced at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The university sought feedback over a month and a half starting from mid-July from the parents of current and former students as well, over digital platforms.

Vice-chancellor Father Felix Raj said the respondents gave their opinion on four areas: relevant to industry requirements; in demand with the students of the city and state; innovative with regard to curriculum design and pedagogy and relevant to current educational trends.

After analysing the data, the university has decided to start a faculty of science with courses in statistics and computer science, he said.

The university will also start a UG and PG course of philosophy as planned earlier, Fr. Vice- Chancellor said.

So far the university ran courses in commerce, management, law, mass communication and humanities.

The course that was high on demand among the respondents was statistics...," he said.

"Courses such as sociology, BEd, Comparative Religion and foreign languages were also suggested," added Vice/ Chancellor. "Among the respondents 60 per cent were students, 13 per cent were industry professionals. The respondents included 16 per cent academicians and 10 per cent parents," said an official official.

The university was inaugurated in 2017 and within four years, it had 3,300 students on its rolls.

India today has listed SXUK as one of the emerging universities in India with potential for high ranking.

Subhankar Chowdhury
Courtesy: The Telegraph Read online