NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has proposed changes to the rules for appointing and promoting teachers, principals, and vice-chancellors in universities and colleges.
These draft regulations are aimed at improving the quality of higher education. Stakeholders can share their feedback on these proposals by February 5, 2025.
A major change suggested by the UGC is removing the National Eligibility Test (NET) as a mandatory requirement for becoming an assistant professor.
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Under the new rules, candidates with a postgraduate degree in ME or MTech and at least 55% marks will qualify for the post. Currently, clearing the UGC-NET exam is necessary for this position.
Other options for eligibility include:
A PhD degree along with an undergraduate degree (with 75% marks) or a postgraduate degree (with 55% marks).
A postgraduate degree (with 55% marks) and qualification in exams like NET, SLET, or equivalent tests conducted by UGC, CSIR, or ICAR.
For vice-chancellors, the UGC has proposed opening the position to a wider range of candidates, including experts from research institutions, public administration, industry, and public policy, in addition to academia.
The selection process will be more transparent, with newspaper advertisements and public notifications.
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A special committee can also nominate or select candidates through a talent search. The draft clearly outlines rules about tenure, age limits, and reappointment for vice-chancellors.
The draft also suggests changes for college principals. Principals will now be appointed for five years, with the option of reappointment for one more term in the same college.
After completing two terms, they must return to their parent institution as professors, provided they meet the required qualifications.