Universities must budge on college autonomy nudge

Context: UGC’s new regulation has sparked an unprecedented response, with 590 colleges applying for autonomous status.

• The National Education Policy 2020 aims for autonomous colleges to drive innovation, self-governance, and academic freedom.

Significance of giving autonomy to colleges:

• Autonomy enhances innovation, academic quality, and institutional excellence.
• Curriculum adaptation in autonomous colleges meets evolving student and industry needs, driving knowledge and societal development.
• Autonomy fosters accountability, enhancing institutional efficiency and motivating faculty and staff.

Concerns:

• Universities are reluctant to cede autonomy, particularly in critical areas.
• Restrictions like syllabus change caps hinder college autonomy in curriculum development.
• Delays in recognizing autonomy undermine college efficiency and spirit.

The way ahead

• Effective implementation of UGC autonomy regulation by State Councils for Higher Education
• Stakeholders must make a concerted effort to address challenges and ensure a vibrant higher education ecosystem.

Source: The Hindu