Varanasi : Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has announced the launch of 121 credit-ready online courses under the INI–SWAYAM initiative for the January–April 2026 academic cycle, significantly expanding opportunities for learners across India and beyond. Designed to be interdisciplinary, skill-oriented, and accessible, these courses aim to strengthen employability and academic progression in line with national education priorities.
The courses will commence in two phases—January 26 and February 16, 2026—and are open to all learners seeking to upgrade academic knowledge or professional skills. Of the total, 71 courses begin in January 2026, covering a wide academic spectrum including Sciences, Engineering, Management, Medicine, Education, Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, and interdisciplinary studies.
Part of the National SWAYAM Mission
The initiative operates under SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds)—a flagship, government-backed platform of the Ministry of Education that offers free, high-quality online education to learners everywhere. BHU’s expanded catalogue underscores its commitment to widening access while ensuring academic rigor.
More Universities Join INI–SWAYAM
Alongside BHU, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) will offer 48 online courses starting January 26, 2026, spanning subjects from Arabic to Zoology. Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) has also joined with two specialised courses in Defence & Strategic Studies and Forensic Accounting. Learners can explore and enrol through the SWAYAM portal.
Focus on Access, Flexibility, and Quality
Highlighting the significance of the expansion, Dr. Ashutosh Mohan, National Coordinator, INI–SWAYAM, Ministry of Education, said the new offerings reflect the spirit of National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning, skill development, and inclusive access. He also noted the inclusion of internationally co-developed courses, enhancing global relevance.
Global Collaborations & Skill-Building
BHU’s partnership with the SEPT Competence Centre at the University of Leipzig, Germany, has resulted in two new programmes:
- Digital Marketing and Branding for Start-ups
- Foundation of Digital Entrepreneurship
These courses focus on customer discovery, media strategies, idea validation, compliance, and market entry, particularly benefiting first-time founders and aspiring entrepreneurs. Several courses are available in Hindi or bilingual formats, removing language barriers and broadening participation.
How to Enrol:
Interested learners can visit swayam.gov.in/INI to browse courses and enrol free of cost.
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