In a significant development, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has granted autonomy to eight universities, aiming to enhance their flexibility and independence in academic and administrative decision-making. Among the institutions benefiting from this autonomy are prestigious names like Delhi University, Central University of Rajasthan, and University of Hyderabad.
The decision, as outlined in the University Grants Commission (Categorization of Universities for Grant of Graded Autonomy) Regulations, 2018, categorizes these universities into two groups based on their NAAC grading. Four universities fall under Category 1 autonomy, while the remaining four are placed under Category 2.
M Jagadesh, the chairperson of UGC, emphasized that autonomy is a step towards empowering educational institutions to innovate and excel in education and research, aligning with the objectives outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Autonomy will enable these universities to introduce new courses, establish off-campus centers, develop skill enhancement programs, and engage in various academic collaborations.
However, the move has sparked criticism, particularly from teachers at Delhi University, who argue that autonomy may lead to a shift in the financial burden on students and parents. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of increased fees for new programs and the potential hiring of foreign faculty, which could exacerbate financial strains.
The Democratic Teachers Front expressed concerns over the autonomy granted to Category-I universities, warning about the potential for high fees for new programs. They cited existing instances, such as journalism and Bachelor of Technology courses at Delhi University, where fees are already perceived to be high.
This development follows previous grants of autonomy to 60 higher education institutions in 2018, including Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), and others. As these universities navigate their newfound autonomy, the debate surrounding the implications for academic quality, accessibility, and financial sustainability is likely to persist.
