UGC Chairman emphasizes facilitation over regulation in higher education

The University Grants Commission (UGC) aims to serve as a facilitator rather than a regulator to drive transformative changes in the higher education sector, asserted its chairman, Jagadesh Kumar, during his visit to Jammu on Friday.

Addressing the media on the sidelines of a national conference on the National Education Policy (NEP) at the Indian Institute of Management, Kumar highlighted the significant surge in the number of students from Jammu and Kashmir appearing for the Common University Entrance Test-Undergraduate (CUET-UG) last year. He assured that the issues encountered by candidates in the previous edition of the exam would be duly addressed in the upcoming session.

Kumar emphasized the adoption of a hybrid mode for CUET, leveraging both OMR-based and computer-based formats, to ensure accessibility for students across diverse locations, thereby promoting inclusivity and mitigating the stress associated with traditional board-based admissions.

The chairman advocated for the establishment of ombudsmen and grievance redressal committees in universities and colleges to promptly address students’ concerns, fostering a conducive learning environment.

More than 400 academics and policymakers participated in the conference, engaging in focused discussions on various aspects of NEP 2020 implementation. Kumar disclosed plans to cover 78 universities under the centrally sponsored Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) to enhance infrastructure.

Underlining the transformative potential of NEP 2020, Kumar emphasized its focus on multidisciplinary and experiential learning, capacity building of teachers, and vocational training initiatives. He also highlighted collaborative efforts with the Central Board of School Education to promote civic awareness among students and streamline curriculum reforms.
Acknowledging the diversity and challenges inherent in the education landscape, Kumar underscored the importance of dialogue and collaboration to address systemic issues and drive holistic progress.

Reflecting on the changes post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Kumar underscored the expanding horizons of opportunities for students in Jammu and Kashmir, fostering a conducive environment for higher education exploration beyond the union territory.

In conclusion, Kumar reiterated the UGC’s commitment to facilitating a dynamic and inclusive educational ecosystem, empowering students to excel and contribute meaningfully to India’s journey towards comprehensive development by 2047.