In a bid to adapt to the evolving global landscape and promote internationalization in education, the Indian Nursing Council (INC) has issued a significant notification on August 2nd, 2023, announcing the addition of foreign languages as an optional subject/course in BSc Nursing and GNM programs. This move aims to enhance the overall personality development of nursing students and equip them with a valuable skill set for their future careers.
The BSc nursing syllabus has been meticulously crafted to align with global standards and competency-based nursing education. Recognizing the importance of communication and cross-cultural interactions in the healthcare field, the INC acknowledges the need to incorporate foreign languages into the nursing curriculum. By doing so, nursing professionals can effectively communicate with patients from diverse linguistic backgrounds and contribute more efficiently to the healthcare ecosystem on a global scale.
The optional foreign language courses will provide nursing students with an additional advantage during their degree/diploma program. Students will have the opportunity to choose from a range of foreign languages, including but not limited to French, German, Greek, Latin, Irish, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese, among others. This diverse array of language options ensures that students can select a language that aligns with their interests and career aspirations.
The language courses will be conducted by hiring specific language teachers, and the expenses for hiring these teachers will be borne by the respective nursing institutions. The INC has emphasized that participating students shall not be charged exorbitant fees for these optional language modules. In line with the INC’s vision of equitable education, the fees will either be nominal or completely waived off, enabling all nursing students to access this opportunity.
It is essential to note that the optional foreign language courses will not be compulsory for any student. Every nursing student has the autonomy to decide whether they want to pursue an additional language alongside their core nursing subjects. To accommodate students’ schedules, the language classes will be conducted after regular class hours or during leisure time, ensuring that it does not interfere with their primary nursing education.
Furthermore, the credits/hours earned through these language courses will be in addition to the credit requirements prescribed in the nursing curriculum for the award of the BSc Nursing/GNM. These additional credits will be reflected in the students’ transcripts, signifying their achievement and proficiency in the chosen foreign language.
The notification for the incorporation of foreign languages in the nursing curriculum has received approval from the competent authority, signifying the importance and relevance of this step in the ever-changing global scenario of healthcare and education.
Indian Nursing Council’s decision to introduce foreign languages as optional subjects in BSc Nursing and GNM programs reflects a progressive approach towards preparing nursing students for the challenges of a globalized world. By embracing linguistic diversity and promoting internationalization, the INC is empowering the future nursing workforce to make a more significant impact on the healthcare sector worldwide.
