Blended and Hybrid Learning: A Pathway for Rural Higher Education Post-NEP 2020

Author(s)	Dr. Gaurav Kumar
Country	India
Abstract	The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes flexibility, technology integration, and learner-centric approaches in higher education. Blended and hybrid learning models—combining face-to-face instruction with online and digital resources—emerged as critical innovations during the COVID-19 pandemic and are now positioned as long-term strategies for curriculum delivery. This paper, based on secondary research, explores the role of blended and hybrid learning in reshaping rural higher education institutions in India, with a particular focus on Punjab. It examines policy initiatives such as the UGC’s Blended Learning Guidelines, SWAYAM, National Digital University, and NPTEL, while also identifying challenges including digital divides, limited faculty preparedness, and infrastructure gaps in rural colleges. The findings suggest that hybrid learning, if implemented with localized solutions, can enhance access, quality, and equity in rural higher education while supporting NEP 2020’s vision of multidisciplinary, flexible, and technology-enabled learning.
Keywords	Blended Learning, Hybrid Education, Rural Higher Education, NEP 2020, Digital Platforms, SWAYAM, National Digital University, Punjab
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 5, September-October 2025
Published On	2025-09-06
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.55319

About IJFMR Fees & Payment Current Issue Publication Archive	Submit Research Paper Track Submission Status Publication Guidelines Publication Ethics Peer Review & Plagiarism	Join as a Reviewer Editors & Reviewers Reviewer Referral Program Get Reviewer Membership Certi.	Website/Journal Policies Usage Policy Content Policies Privacy Policy

Contact Us		+91-9687-828-838	editor@ijfmr.com

International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research