The Gangadhar Meher University (GMU) here would introduce two new courses, ‘Sambalpuri’ studies and ‘Happiness’ studies, from the next academic session. The decision was taken in its Syndicate meeting.
Happiness studies would be the first of its kind in Odisha. As there are no specialists for such a course, the task would be entrusted to experts of other States, university sources said. After framing of a syllabus, it would be placed before the Academic Council. After the process is completed before May, it would be placed before the Syndicate in early June. With the Syndicate’s approval, the course would start from June, the beginning of the academic session. The Happiness course would help people lead a happy life which is slowly at stake due to several daily stresses and strains.
As for the Sambalpuri studies, the course would include Sambalpuri language, literature, history, culture, rural life, handloom and handicrafts, GMU Deputy Registrar Prof Uma Charan Pati said. It would be a career and job-oriented course which would enable the students to get several opportunities, besides helping the one of the oldest languages, Sambalpuri, get recognition in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, he added.