UGC approves its plan to allow approximately 37 universities, including Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), to offer online degrees.
The decision was made almost six months after UGC began the process of recognizing such qualifications, according to reports. Given the current pandemic situation, UGC took this step in order to formalize online degrees and capitalize on the momentum created during the COVID disruptions.
According to reports, this may increase enrolment in higher education, allowing universities to better utilize resources and generate revenue. From Sanskrit to business administration, data science to liberal arts, the UGC has approved a wide range of courses.
“As mandated by the regulations, online applications had been invited from all entitled higher educational institutions (HEIs) willing to offer programs under online mode for the academic session 2020-21, beginning January revised (Feb-March). Further, each HEI was required to submit an affidavit for ensuring compliance with all provisions of the UGC,” the Commission said.
While approving universities to offer online courses, the UGC requested affidavits and details from the universities to ensure that they followed the rules.
List of HEI Approved for ODL by UGC
UGC took this important step towards virtual education in light of the growth of online education during the lockdown period. To help students catch up on their studies, education regulators have already allowed up to 20% of a regular course to be offered online.
“Fully online degrees are part of India's broader agenda to open up and liberalize higher education. India will allow the top universities to offer full-fledged online degrees," said finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union budget for 2020.
The UGC's action is also in line with the government's new education policy, which calls for "an overhaul" of the sector to create a new system that will not only provide quality higher education but also increase India's gross enrolment ratio to 50% from around 27% now.
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