As a 23-year-old Goan pursuing a master's degree abroad, I have realized the stark contrast between the advanced learning culture here versus the outdated curriculum still being followed at Goa University. While the world rapidly digitalizes, our bachelor's degrees remain irrelevant and impractical, with theoretical textbooks, written assignments and written exams based on rote information memorisation and recall. There is an urgent need to revamp the commerce degree to include application-based assessments that build real-world skills like crafting marketing plans, analyzing case studies, and honing communication abilities. Employers today seek strategic thinkers and proficient writers, which most Goan graduates sorely lack. Assessments should evaluate students' ability to apply concepts to solve concrete business problems. The outdated curriculum and assessments are restricting career options, leaving masses of ambitious graduates unprepared for the job market. Lack of practical training renders youth unprepared for either entrepreneurship or private sector employment. Those who can afford quality private education are staying ahead while the middle class suffers. If our state universities can match global standards, there will be no need for students to permanently migrate.
