The University Grants Commission (UGC) released a public notice that provides detailed guidelines for state-private universities looking to establish off-campus centers within their respective states. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has taken this significant step towards aligning higher education. On February 13, 2024, the commission held its 577th meeting, in which it approved the style to consider the proposals of setting up the off-campus center(s). All the state universities that are abiding by the parameters (set in Annexure-I) and are desirous of setting up off-campus centers can submit their proposals in the prescribed format (Annexure-II).
According to the notice issued by UGC, all private universities will become eligible for off-campus centers as long as the State University Act (under which the university is established) has provisions for such types of expansions. However, it is crucial to note those private universities that were established within the last five years are ineligible to set up off-campus centers. Through this restriction, all newly established institutes are given the opportunity to establish themselves and meet the criteria before expanding their functioning.
UGC has also emphasised on the importance of maintaining the quality of infrastructure, faculty, along with the academic programmes offered at these off-campus centers. It is insisted that the off campus centers should be in equivalence with the main campus. The purpose behind this is to uphold academic standards and ensure that all students receive a consistent and high-quality educational experience, regardless of the campus they decide to take admission in.
The UGC’s move to regulate and standardise the application process for off-campus centers reflects a commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of higher education institutions. By encouraging state private universities to establish off-campus centers in accordance with these guidelines, the UGC seeks to foster academic growth and development while safeguarding the integrity of the education sector in India.
Despite the existence of 471 private universities, the past records show that till date, no off-campus centre has received any approval. However, certain deemed-to-be universities under private ownership have been granted permission to establish off-campus centers.
Under the new rules, private universities can now take charge of any college which is part of the same trust/ company. This is different from UGC’s 2018 statement, where it didn’t allow private universities to connect with any other institutions. The university can slowly shut down the affiliated college, but they need a certificate saying the university does not have any issue.
A state private university should secure any approval or a Letter of Intent from the relevant statutory or regulatory body in order to establish a programme in an off-campus center. Any form of expansion whether it is in the form of programmes or departments, or seat capacity, etc., requires approval from the statutory authority and the university’s academic/ executive council. According to the UGC notice, it is important to have transparency in all such approvals and the same should be visible on the official website.
To initiate the off campus centers, the universities should submit proposals to a standing committee, which is subject to quarterly inspections by the UGC. If any kind of violations are brought to notice, then UGC reserves the right to close the center and relocate the students to the main campus if required. Additionally, the state private university willing to set up an off campus center must either own the land or lease it for a minimum of 30 years to establish such a center. Setting up these centers comes with a financial responsibility, and for this UGC charges Rs 10 lakhs as a processing fee for the establishment of these centers.
Lastly, the diligent guidelines showcase the UGC’s commitment to upholding top-notch standards in higher education. By regulating the establishment and functioning of these off campus centers, the UGC aims to ensure quality, transparency, and accountability within the private university sector in India.
