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Universities Can Now Take Admissions Twice A Year: UGC Chairman

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News on Education 4 ArdorComm Media Group Universities Can Now Take Admissions Twice A Year: UGC Chairman

Indian universities and higher education institutions (HEIs) will now be allowed to conduct admissions twice a year, akin to foreign universities, announced UGC chief Jagadesh Kumar. The two admission cycles will be scheduled for July-August and January-February, starting from the 2024-25 academic session, according to a report by news agency PTI. “If Indian universities can offer admission twice a year, it will benefit many students such as those who missed admission to a university in the July-August session due to a delay in the announcement of board results, health issues, or personal reasons,” Kumar told PTI. “Biannual university admissions will help students maintain motivation since they do not have to wait one full year to be admitted if they miss admission in the current cycle. With biannual admissions in place, industries can also do their campus recruitment twice a year, improving employment opportunities for the graduates,” he added. The UGC chief elaborated that biannual admissions will facilitate higher education institutes (HEIs) in better planning their resource allocation, including faculty, labs, classrooms, and support services. This streamlined approach is expected to enhance the operational efficiency of universities. “Universities worldwide already follow a biannual admission system. If Indian HEIs adopt the biannual admission cycle, our HEIs can enhance their international collaborations and student exchanges. As a result, our global competitiveness will improve, and we will align with the global educational standards,” Kumar said. “If HEIs adopt biannual admissions, they need to work on administrative intricacies, good planning for increased use of available resources, and providing seamless support systems for the smooth transition of students admitted at dissimilar times of the year. HEIs can maximize the usefulness of biannual admissions only when they sufficiently prepare faculty members, staff, and students for the transition,” he added. Kumar, however, clarified that offering biannual admissions will not be mandatory for universities. HEIs with the necessary infrastructure and teaching faculty can choose to utilize this opportunity at their discretion. “Offering biannual admissions will not be mandatory for the HEIs, it is the flexibility that UGC provides to the HEIs which want to increase their student intake and offer new programs in emerging areas. To be able to admit students twice a year, HEIs must make suitable amendments to their institutional regulations,” he said.

UGC Directs Higher Education Institutions to Restrict Enrolment of Foreign Nationals in Online Programs

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News on Education 17 ArdorComm Media Group UGC Directs Higher Education Institutions to Restrict Enrolment of Foreign Nationals in Online Programs

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a notice to all higher education institutions, instructing them to avoid admitting foreign nationals into open and distance learning (ODL) programs. This directive aligns with the eligibility criteria outlined in UGC regulations Annexure III, which specify that only students residing in India are eligible for enrolment in ODL programs. According to regulation 23 of the UGC ODL Programmes and Online Programmes Regulations, 2020, learners residing in any part of the country may enrol in programs offered by recognized higher educational institutions. However, all activities related to learners, including admissions, contact programs, and examinations, must be conducted strictly within the territorial jurisdiction of the institution. The notice also references a notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs, which states that no student visa will be issued to foreign nationals sponsored by certain educational institutes, including franchise educational institutes, off-campus centers, and study centers of open universities offering distance learning programs without statutory sanction from regulatory authorities. As a result, higher education institutions recognized to offer ODL programs are directed not to enrol any foreign nationals in such programs. Only learners residing in India are permitted to be enrolled in ODL programs, in compliance with the territorial jurisdiction defined in UGC regulations.  

UGC Greenlights Off-Campus Expansion for State Private Universities, Bolstering Education Accessibility

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News on education 1 ArdorComm Media Group UGC Greenlights Off-Campus Expansion for State Private Universities, Bolstering Education Accessibility

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has paved the way for state-private universities to establish off-campus centres, marking a significant stride towards enhancing educational accessibility. This move, endorsed during the 577th UGC meeting on February 13, 2024, aligns with the objectives outlined in the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) and is poised to elevate the quality and reach of higher education in India. According to the guidelines set forth by the UGC, state-private universities seeking to establish off-campus centres must meet stringent criteria, including a minimum operational history of five years to demonstrate stability and experience. Additionally, provisions within the respective State University Acts must facilitate the establishment of these centres, ensuring regulatory compliance and adherence to educational standards. Experts anticipate a transformative impact on education accessibility, particularly for students residing in smaller towns and cities. The establishment of off-campus centres closer to their homes is expected to reduce the overall cost of education and broaden the spectrum of learning opportunities. States with sizable populations, such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka, are poised to witness substantial benefits from this initiative. While 471 private universities await approval for off-campus centres from the UGC, several privately owned deemed-to-be universities have already received permission to establish such centres. This move has garnered commendation from educational institutions, with stakeholders recognizing its potential to foster excellence in education and expand learning opportunities across diverse locations. To ensure compliance and maintain educational standards, state private universities are required to submit formal proposals to a standing committee constituted by the UGC. Quarterly inspections will be conducted, and any violations may result in the closure of the centre, with students relocated to the main campus. Additionally, a processing fee of Rs 10 lakh will be levied for the establishment of these centres, as outlined in the notice. The UGC’s decision to permit off-campus expansion for state private universities signifies a progressive step towards democratizing education and empowering students with greater access to high-quality educational infrastructure.

Malaysia’s Lincoln University College Makes Historic Move to Establish Campus in India

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News on Education 3 ArdorComm Media Group Malaysia’s Lincoln University College Makes Historic Move to Establish Campus in India

Malaysia’s Lincoln University College has emerged as the trailblazer among foreign universities seeking to establish a presence in India, becoming the first institution to apply through the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) dedicated application portal. The move marks a significant milestone in the internationalization of Indian higher education. The UGC has formed a five-member standing committee tasked with evaluating Lincoln University College’s application, indicating that a decision is imminent. This development comes in the wake of the UGC’s recent notification of regulations governing the establishment and operation of campuses by Foreign Higher Education Institutions (FHEIs) in India. According to Union Education Minister of State Subhas Sarkar, Lincoln University College has expressed interest in establishing a campus in Telangana, showcasing the growing appeal of Indian academia on the global stage. Sarkar’s statement in the Lok Sabha underscores the proactive steps taken by the Indian government to attract foreign investment and expertise in the education sector. While other foreign universities have shown interest by accessing the UGC portal to explore application requirements, Lincoln University College stands as the sole applicant thus far. Renowned for its academic prowess, the university holds respectable positions in prestigious global rankings, reflecting its commitment to excellence. The UGC’s regulations aim to facilitate the seamless operation of FHEIs in India, granting them autonomy in degree-granting, admission processes, and fee structures. The move is poised to enhance educational opportunities for Indian students and foster collaboration between domestic and international institutions. Responding to queries regarding the affordability of FHEIs for Indian students, Sarkar emphasized the potential for scholarships and tuition fee concessions, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. Additionally, stringent measures have been put in place to prevent misuse of philanthropic resources and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Concerns Rise as Centre Slashes Education Budget in Interim Budget; UGC Funding Takes a Hit

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News on Education 1 ArdorComm Media Group Concerns Rise as Centre Slashes Education Budget in Interim Budget; UGC Funding Takes a Hit

The interim budget for education in India has sparked concerns as the government announced a 7% reduction in allocations, significantly impacting higher education funding. The University Grants Commission (UGC) faced the largest-ever cut of 61% in the last five years, raising apprehensions about the potential repercussions on universities and students. The budget for schools experienced a marginal dip, while central universities witnessed a 28% increase in grants. However, support for Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) was trimmed for the second consecutive year. The interim budget, presented on Thursday, allocated ₹1.2 lakh crore for education, reflecting a 7% decrease compared to the revised estimate for 2023-24. The UGC, responsible for higher education, bore the brunt of funding cuts, with its allocation reduced from ₹6,409 crore in 2023-24 to ₹2,500 crore in 2024-25. Despite the challenges, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming education through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The focus is on empowering the youth during the “Amrit Kaal,” the 25 years leading to 2047. Experts raised concerns over the impact of the drastic UGC budget cut, fearing it might encourage universities to rely on self-financing courses, burdening students and increasing dependence on loans. UGC Chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar reassured a commitment to quality higher education and efficient fund utilization. While the budget for central universities saw a notable increase of 28%, support for IIMs faced a reduction for the second consecutive year, dropping from ₹608.23 crore in 2022-23 to ₹212.21 crore in 2024-25. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailed the budget as a stepping stone towards a “Viksit Bharat” (developed India) and highlighted the “Jai Anusandhan” scheme with a ₹1 lakh crore corpus fund as a significant announcement.

UGC Unveils Regulations Allowing Top Global Universities to Establish Campuses in India

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News on Edu 10th Nov 2023 ArdorComm Media Group UGC Unveils Regulations Allowing Top Global Universities to Establish Campuses in India

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently released regulations allowing foreign universities ranked among the top 500 globally to establish branch campuses in India. This comes shortly after Australia’s Western Sydney University announced plans for an independent campus in Bangalore. The new regulations empower these foreign institutions to determine their admission processes, fee structures, and facilitate the repatriation of funds to their parent campuses. The guidelines stipulate that two or more foreign universities can collaborate to establish campuses in India, provided each institution individually meets the eligibility criteria. Additionally, a foreign university is permitted to set up multiple campuses in India, with a separate application required for each proposed location. The final regulations, released after a 10-month period of public feedback on the draft, include several modifications. Notably, foreign universities must ensure that international faculty members appointed to teach at Indian campuses stay in the country for at least one semester. The processing time for applications by the standing committee has been extended from 45 to 60 days, and recommendations must be presented to the UGC within 60 days. The regulations also specify that foreign universities cannot establish learning centers, study centers, or franchises that act as representative offices for promotional activities in India or any other jurisdiction outside the country without prior approval from the UGC. Moreover, the regulations prohibit the offering of programs online or in open and distance learning modes, except for online lectures, which should not exceed 10% of the program requirements. Foreign institutions are exempt from annual fees to the UGC, only requiring a one-time application fee. They are expected to use their own infrastructure, land, and resources to establish campuses. Additionally, foreign universities may offer full or partial merit-based or need-based scholarships and fee concessions to Indian students on their campuses. While these regulations align with the National Education Policy of 2020, which aims to create a legislative framework for top global universities in India, previous attempts, including those by the UPA government, faced opposition from parties such as the BJP and the Left when they were in the opposition.

Over 20 Million Students Register on UGC’s Academic Bank of Credit, Says UGC Chairman

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News on Edu

UGC Chairman Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar announced that more than 20 million students from across the nation have registered on the University Grants Commission’s Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) platform. He made this announcement during the western zone vice chancellor’s conference held at Maharaja Sayajirao University in Baroda, Gujarat, on October 26. Chairman Kumar emphasized that in recent years, the UGC has introduced various reforms. Although over 20 million students have already registered on the ABC platform, he stressed the importance of ensuring that every student register and that their academic credentials and credit certificates are uploaded to the ABC platform. During the conference, the UGC Chairman also discussed the progress made in implementing the reforms initiated by the UGC. The Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) is one of the provisions outlined in the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). ABC offers undergraduate and postgraduate students the flexibility to exit and re-enter their courses within a specified time frame. Additionally, it aims to provide every student with the opportunity to open an academic bank account with ABC to transfer credits for the attainment of various degrees, diplomas, or certificates.

UGC Draft Guidelines Propose Mandatory Internships for Undergraduate Students to Enhance Employability and Research Skills

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News on Edu 13th Oct 2023 ArdorComm Media Group UGC Draft Guidelines Propose Mandatory Internships for Undergraduate Students to Enhance Employability and Research Skills

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released preliminary guidelines suggesting mandatory internships for undergraduate students as a means to enhance their employability and foster an understanding of research while earning academic credits. These draft guidelines, titled “Guidelines for Internship/Research Internship for Undergraduate Students,” are aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the integration of internships and research opportunities into undergraduate curricula. The UGC made these guidelines available to the public for feedback and suggestions. The UGC has recognized that many graduates struggle to enter the workforce due to their lack of practical skills, knowledge, and experience, which employers typically seek. Internships are considered a crucial tool for improving these employability skills and can equip students with competency, professionalism, expertise, and confidence, as well as kindle their interest in research. Currently, internships are not obligatory for all undergraduate programs and are primarily restricted to technical and professional courses. UGC Chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar believes that hands-on experience through internships will bridge the gap between academic learning and the real world, enhancing students’ grasp of concepts. He emphasizes the importance of students acquiring a broad range of skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These internships, as outlined in the UGC guidelines, are designed to help students gain valuable soft and technical skills highly valued by employers and establish professional connections with potential mentors. The draft guidelines propose two types of undergraduate internships: those focused on employability and those designed to cultivate a passion for research. For students pursuing a three-year undergraduate degree, a mandatory internship of 60 to 120 hours will occur after the fourth semester. Those opting for a four-year degree will participate in a research internship during the eighth semester. These internships can earn students up to 12 academic credits. The guidelines also recommend the appointment of a coordinator or the establishment of a well-defined mechanism for the smooth coordination and execution of internships across diverse disciplines within each higher education institution’s research and development (R&D) cell. Furthermore, the guidelines propose evaluating students during their internships. Evaluation methods may include assessments by the research internship supervisor based on the students’ efforts and research output or through seminar presentations and viva-voce at the higher education institution (HEI).

UGC reforms distance learning guidelines to enhance enrolment of foreign students

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Edu news 25th July 2022 ArdorComm Media Group UGC reforms distance learning guidelines to enhance enrolment of foreign students

In order to make it easier for overseas students to enrol at Indian universities, the University Grants Commission (UGC) modified the rules for open and distance learning programmes and online programmes. Through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), this amendment will enable international students with expired passports to enrol in Indian universities. Prior to this, in order to enrol themselves in any Indian university, international students were required to submit their passports as proof of identity. As a result, several applications were turned down because they were either incomplete or had expired passports. However, this modification will only be relevant to foreign students who enrol themselves on the e-VidyaBharati Portal and are accepted by MEA. Such students will not be required to have a passport and may provide any form of “national Identity with Photograph” issued by their country in order to enrol. The Ministry of External Affairs launched the e-VidyaBharati programme to provide tele-education services to African countries. These services are provided free of cost. Moreover, the e-VidyaBharati (tele-education) project of the Ministry of External Affairs provides scholarships to African students. Over a five-year period, the organisation intends to provide at least 15,000 scholarships to African students. “The Second Amendment Regulations, 2022 changes the compulsory identifier ‘Passport’ for International students to ‘any national Identity with photograph’ of the country of residence for the admissions through MEA in UGC recognized/entitled Online Programmes.” said UGC Chairman Prof. M Jagadesh Kumar while speaking about the amendment. “This Amendment is expected to improve the number of enrolments of the international learners in online programmes through projects of the Ministry of External Affair,” he added.

UGC to revise draft learning outcome norms to align with NSQF

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Edu news 23rd May 2022 ArdorComm Media Group UGC to revise draft learning outcome norms to align with NSQF

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has decided to make minor changes to the draft regulations, which, once adopted, will define the learning outcomes associated with each level of higher education qualification and allow for credit transfer across institutions and courses. Prof M Jagadesh Kumar, the chairperson of the UGC, said that the commission decided to revise the draft regulations, which were made public in January, to maintain equivalence with the country’s technical education guidelines. Simply said, the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF), which is currently being revised, establishes what a learner should know after completing a course, which can range from certificate programmes to PhDs. It also establishes the minimum credits required for a student to pass a course and advance to the next level. The qualifications were initially organised on a scale of five to ten in the draft NHEQF. “However, the above is not in tune with the NSQF in which the levels are organised from 4.5 to 8. Since UGC’s draft NHEQF has levels from 5 to 10 as explained above, it will create operational problems for the vertical and horizontal mobility of learning by prescribing the entry requirement for each qualification, prerequisites for lateral entry, and validation of prior learning outcomes achieved,” said Prof Kumar. As a result, the NHEQF will use the 4.5 to 8 scale, he stated. Prof Kumar added that the UGC will convene a series of meetings with university administrators beginning May 25 to discuss the plan to revise the draft. The updated scale was created in accordance with the proposed four-year undergraduate programme structure, which will provide students with several entry and exit choices, allowing them to earn anything from a certificate to a degree with research depending on how many semesters they complete. Source: Indian Express