Assam Women’s University Expands with New Departments
Jorhat, Oct 7 — The Assam Women’s University (AWU), a pioneering institution dedicated to women’s education in the Northeastern region, recently marked its 12th anniversary and is looking to enhance its academic offerings.
New Academic Programs Unveiled
In a significant expansion, AWU plans to introduce two new departments: Petroleum Science and Technology, and Commerce, starting from the 2026-27 academic session.
According to Prof Ajanta Borgohain Rajkonwar, the Vice Chancellor of AWU, the school will offer a one-year diploma in Petroleum Science and Technology, along with a six-month certificate program in commerce covering various crucial subjects.
Market Demand and Curriculum Development
Prof Rajkonwar stated that these additions are designed to address the evolving job market, supported by findings from surveys indicating a strong demand for skilled individuals in these fields.
The initiative is particularly backed by a survey conducted in collaboration with Dibrugarh University, emphasizing skill enhancement for both mid-level professionals and new graduates aspiring to enter the oil sector in Upper Assam.
The Petroleum Science program’s curriculum has already been developed in conjunction with industry experts and will include a hybrid mode of instruction. Eligibility requires a passing grade in the higher secondary (Science).
Commerce Program Details
The proposed Commerce department’s six-month program, developed with input from the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) in Mumbai, aims to align with current business needs in the region.
This program features six modules, each lasting a month, covering key topics such as GST, Tally, Payroll, TDS (Tax Deducted at Source), and ITR (Income Tax Return). The final month will focus on real-world application through an internship.
Eligibility for this program includes passing the higher secondary exam in any stream.
University Growth and Future Plans
With 44 distinct undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 15 departments, the university serves a diverse student body of over 1,100 individuals.
Additionally, AWU is currently developing a new 58-bigha campus at Teok Koliapani, which is nearing completion. The academic building is finished, and operations are slated to move to the new site in the upcoming months, while continuing some activities at the existing Rowriah campus.
Prof Rajkonwar emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among female students, highlighting its long-term vision to be a center for excellence in women’s education and research.
