UGC, a representation image (BS)
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has expressed strong disapproval of the West Bengal government’s recent decision to retain the M.Phil program, disregarding the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) directive to discontinue the degree. ABVP asserts that this move may jeopardise the educational future of students in West Bengal and create a disparity with national academic standards.
The UGC’s decision to phase out the M.Phil degree was made in line with the National Education Policy (NEP-2020), aiming to streamline academic pathways and enhance the overall quality of higher education in the country. ABVP National Secretary Shri Budhdev Bagh voiced support for the UGC’s decision, emphasising its progressive vision for education.
The decision of the West Bengal government to persist with the M.Phil program is viewed by ABVP as regressive and indicative of a lack of commitment to ensuring educational parity within the state. The organisation is concerned that students in West Bengal might face a disadvantage compared to their counterparts in states adhering to national educational policies.
Shri Budhdev Bagh stated, “ABVP supports the decision of UGC to discontinue the M.Phil degree, as it aligns with the progressive vision outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP-2020). We believe that the West Bengal government’s decision to defy the UGC is regressive, undermining the academic potential of students in the state.”
ABVP also highlighted concerns about reported scams and irregularities within the West Bengal government’s education sector, suggesting that such issues could further harm the educational future of students.
The UGC’s directive to discontinue M.Phil as a recognized degree is seen by ABVP as a step toward promoting seamless transitions for students, particularly from master’s programs to research-intensive master’s or Ph.D. programs. The organisation calls for a reconsideration of the West Bengal government’s decision to ensure that students in the state do not face unnecessary hurdles in their academic journey.
ABVP’s stance underscores the importance of adherence to national educational policies and standards for the benefit of students and the overall development of the education sector in West Bengal.
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