University Grants Commission (UGC) Mandates Recognition: HEIs Must Seek Approval

Higher Education Institutions: University Grants Commission (UGC) Recognition Guidelines & NEP 2020 Updates

University Grants Commission (UGC): In a recent meeting led by UGC Chairman Prof M Jagadesh Kumar to discuss the implementation of NEP 2020, it was highlighted that all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) need to seek recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC) under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956.

The UGC plans to issue advisories to HEIs, urging them to apply for recognition within a specified timeframe. Prof Kumar emphasized the importance of institutions becoming centers of excellence and suggested that regulatory authorities should play a facilitating role. Additionally, he stressed the effective use of technology in teaching and learning, as well as the inclusion of an Indian Knowledge System module in all disciplines.

To address issues related to Deemed-to-be Universities and Private Universities, the UGC will form a monitoring committee, including representatives from relevant regulators as per the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee. Furthermore, recognition will be given to HEIs that provide facilities for persons with disabilities, following RCI guidelines in NAAC accreditation criteria.

The UGC has also requested regulatory authorities to reach out to industrial organizations associated with them, asking them to nominate industry personnel to register on the UGC’s professor of practice portal. The meeting included officials from various regulatory bodies, such as NMC, the Veterinary Council of India, AICTE, PCI, the Dental Council of India, the Council of Architecture, NCTE, ICAR, the Rehabilitation Council of India, NAAC, and NIRF.