UGC Drafts New Evaluation Methodology for HEIs Based on NEP 2020

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a draft methodology to evaluate Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) based on their adherence to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This new framework will influence the allocation of privileges and entitlements under UGC regulations, requiring institutions to substantiate their claims with documentary evidence.

UGC’s Proposed Evaluation Framework

Mandatory Eligibility Qualifiers

HEIs must first meet certain eligibility benchmarks, termed “qualifiers,” to proceed with the evaluation. These include:

1. Recognition under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act.
2. Registration on the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) portal.
3. Valid accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
4. Implementation of UGC guidelines on public self-disclosure.
5. Formation of grievance redressal mechanisms:
   • Ombudsperson and Students Grievance Redressal Committee (SGRC) for universities or deemed universities.
   • SGRC for colleges as per UGC regulations.
6. Adoption of UGC’s fee refund policy.
7. Establishment of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) for addressing sexual harassment cases.
8. Registration on the UTSAH portal for transformative strategies in higher education.
9. Registration on the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) portal (applicable to universities and autonomous colleges).
10. No listing as a defaulter institution by the UGC.
11. Timely notification of autonomous colleges approved by the UGC (applicable for affiliating universities).

Institutions failing to meet these qualifiers will be disqualified from receiving entitlements. Submission of incorrect or false evidence may result in rejection and further action.

Quantifier Parameters

Once the qualifiers are met, HEIs will be assessed on “quantifiers” involving a yes/no response format. These parameters focus on the implementation of NEP 2020 and UGC regulations. The evaluation criteria are as follows:

• General Parameters: Applicable to all HEIs.
• Special Parameters: Additional metrics for universities and autonomous colleges.

HEIs must provide verifiable evidence to substantiate their claims. UGC’s decision on whether a parameter has been achieved will be final.

Two-Step Evaluation Process

1. Eligibility Qualifiers: Mandatory requirements to determine if an institution can proceed for further evaluation.
2. Quantifier Parameters: Comprehensive assessment based on NEP 2020 initiatives and adherence to UGC regulations.

Stakeholder Feedback

The UGC has invited feedback from stakeholders and the public via a Google form to refine the draft methodology.

Key Considerations

The draft framework emphasizes transparency and accountability, ensuring HEIs submit authentic data. Institutions found in non-compliance with these standards may face stringent consequences.

This new methodology reflects UGC’s commitment to enhancing the quality and governance of higher education institutions in alignment with NEP 2020. Institutions are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the parameters and prepare accordingly.

For more details and to submit suggestions, visit the official UGC website: cbse.gov.in.