UGC Allows Top 500 Global Universities to Set Up Campuses in India

Context:

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued regulations permitting foreign universities ranked among the world’s top 500 to establish branch campuses in India. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020, aiming to provide a legislative framework for the presence of leading global universities in the country. The guidelines were formalized after the draft norms for foreign universities were released by the UGC, inviting public feedback.

Relevance:

GS II: Education

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Key Aspects of UGC Regulations for Foreign University Campuses in India
2. University Grants Commission (UGC)

Key Aspects of UGC Regulations for Foreign University Campuses in India

Collaborative Ventures:

• Two or more foreign universities can collaborate to establish campuses in India.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Each participating institution must meet individual eligibility criteria.

Multiple Campuses:

• Each foreign university has the opportunity to set up more than one campus in the country.

International Faculty Commitment:

• International faculty appointed for Indian campuses must commit to staying in the country for a minimum of one semester.

Extended Processing Time:

• The time for the standing committee to process applications has been extended from 45 to 60 days.

Committee Recommendations:

• Recommendations of the committee must be presented before the UGC within the revised 60-day timeframe.

Autonomy for Foreign Universities:

• Foreign universities can decide their admission process, fee structure, and repatriate funds to their parent campuses.

Restrictions on Learning Centers:

• Foreign universities are prohibited from opening learning centers, study centers, or franchises without prior commission approval.

Program Approval:

• Approval is mandatory before initiating any new program on Indian campuses.

Online Learning Restrictions:

• Programs cannot be offered online or in Open and Distance Learning modes under these regulations.
• Lectures in online mode are allowed but should not exceed 10% of the program requirements.

Exemptions and Fees:

• Foreign universities are exempt from paying annual fees to the UGC, except for a one-time application fee.

Funding and Scholarships:

• The establishment of campuses should be funded using the foreign universities’ own infrastructure, land, and resources.
• Foreign universities are encouraged to provide full or partial merit-based and need-based scholarships and fee concessions to Indian students.

University Grants Commission (UGC):

Establishment:

• Founded on 28th December 1953.
• Attained statutory status through an Act of Parliament in 1956.

Mandate:

• Responsible for coordinating, determining, and maintaining standards in teaching, examination, and research in university education.

Regulatory Functions:

• Regulates the recognition of various educational entities, including fake universities, autonomous colleges, deemed-to-be universities, and distance education institutions.

Headquarters:

• The UGC’s central office is situated in New Delhi.

-Source: Indian Express