Sambalpur: The Gangadhar Meher University (GMU) in Odisha’s Sambalpur has decided to introduce a unique course in happiness as part of its efforts to impart outcome-based education to students.
As per university authorities, it will be a six-month certificate course in happiness designed in accordance with the objectives of the New Education Policy-2020 (NEP). “We are going to launch the new course very soon. It will enable students to live a meaningful life,” a senior official of the university said.
The aim is to infuse positivity among students and make them understand the science of happiness which will pave the way for physical and mental wellbeing.
Stating that there are two types of happiness, he said hedonic happiness gives only temporary pleasure. Youngsters take drugs and get addicted to liquor, tobacco for momentary pleasure.
On the other hand, eudaimonic happiness gives permanent pleasure as it is closely tied to finding meaning and purpose in life. This can involve pursuing goals that align with one’s values, contributing to a cause, or developing personal strengths.
It emphasises self-improvement and striving to become the best version of oneself. This could involve learning new skills, overcoming challenges, and developing a deeper understanding of oneself.
Highlighting the significance of true happiness, experts said Bhutan was the first country to have introduced gross national happiness (GNH) instead of GNP and now other countries are trying to follow.
They said eudaimonic happiness often involves contributing to something larger than oneself, whether it’s through relationships, community involvement, or pursuing a larger goal.
Unlike hedonic happiness, which can be fleeting, eudaimonic happiness is associated with more lasting and profound satisfaction.
Essentially, eudaimonic happiness is about living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling, contributing to one’s own well-being and the well-being of others.
Those who are working in various fields can also take admission and learn the techniques to remain happy. The course is designed to teach a set of science-based strategies to be happy, solving troubles caused due to negative and destructive emotions like anger, hatred and jealousy, they said.
