NEW DELHI- In a significant move to ensure the highest standards of education, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled draft guidelines proposing stringent eligibility criteria for colleges seeking grants from the Centre. The guidelines, titled “UGC (Fitness of Colleges for Receiving Grants) Rules, 2024,” aim to replace the existing 1975 UGC guidelines and align with the National Education Policy 2020.
Under the proposed guidelines, the criteria for receiving funding extend beyond the nature and duration of courses. The UGC suggests that universities seeking grants should either hold accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) or have at least 60% of their programs accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). For colleges offering less than three programs, each eligible program must be accredited.
In the absence of NAAC or NBA accreditation, colleges must achieve a rank in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) at least thrice after participating five times or at least twice after participating thrice. The draft emphasizes the importance of maintaining a reasonable fee structure as prescribed by the relevant authorities at the central or state government. Colleges should refrain from charging capitation fees or any unauthorized fees, with proof of certification required for credibility.
Moreover, colleges must ensure that at least 75% of the total sanctioned teaching posts are filled, adhering to the reservation policy. Teachers must not only be hired but also compensated according to UGC, Central, or state government policies. The guidelines make it mandatory for colleges to submit an undertaking, endorsed by the university, agreeing to refund any unutilized funds received from the UGC or other government funding agencies.
The UGC has introduced an online application process through its portal for colleges seeking recognition under Section 12B of the UGC Act, 1956. This recognition makes colleges eligible to receive grants for various academic and research activities. The affiliating university is responsible for reviewing and recommending the application to the UGC within 60 days. Any violation of the rules may lead to the withdrawal of the college’s status, as specified in the draft.
The public has been invited to provide comments on the proposed guidelines, known as the “UGC (Fitness of Colleges for Receiving Grants) Rules, 2024,” by March 4, 2024. If approved, these guidelines will usher in a new era of accountability and quality assurance in higher education institutions across the country.