The University Grants Commission (UGC) is expected to implement changes to the recruitment guidelines for professors at colleges and universities, collectively referred to as higher education institutions (HEIs). These new guidelines will enable passionate postgraduates in emerging fields like entrepreneurship, startups, and industry partnerships to be directly appointed as faculty in HEIs. Currently, recruitment is governed by the 2018 UGC Regulations, which stipulate specific conditions and minimum qualifications for hiring academic staff.
What changes are anticipated?
UGC Chairman Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar states that the updated rules will prioritize producing graduates equipped with skills and competencies essential for today’s workforce. The proposed reforms will emphasize research, empowering teachers to contribute more innovatively. UGC envisions faculty who adopt modern pedagogical approaches, integrate technology, introduce experiential learning, and foster educational transformation.
"Currently, faculty recruitment in Indian HEIs overemphasizes publications and confines applicants within rigid disciplinary lines. This selection process reduces their contributions to mere numerical achievements," Mr. Kumar wrote in the *Hindustan Times*. He highlighted the need for a balanced recruitment approach, which would encourage faculty to engage in a broader spectrum of activities benefiting universities and society alike.
The UGC also shared information about the proposed changes on its X (formerly Twitter) handle.
What other academic adjustments are suggested?
Under current regulations, a PhD with a four-year graduation/PG is the minimum qualification for professor recruitment, along with a requirement that candidates hold their undergraduate and PhD degrees in the same subject. However, these criteria are likely to change, as the UGC has conducted an extensive six-month review and is preparing a draft to seek public feedback on these new guidelines.
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