Indian Knowledge System, NEP-2020 and Social Work Education in Gujarat: Perceptions of 350 Students

This paper examines the integration of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) within Social Work Education in Gujarat in the context of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. By surveying 350 social work students across universities and colleges in Gujarat, this study investigates student perceptions of how well IKS is reflected in curriculum, teaching methods, and community engagement activities. The findings suggest that although students acknowledge the importance of IKS, its systematic inclusion in pedagogy and practice remains limited. Results also indicate that NEP-2020 frameworks have created awareness but lack concrete implementation strategies at the institutional level. The study concludes with actionable suggestions to strengthen IKS integration in social work education in Gujarat.