The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a significant policy change, allowing state-private universities to establish off-campus centres within their respective states. This move, approved in February 2024, aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020)'s focus on expanding access to quality education.

WHO CAN SET UP OFF-CAMPUS CENTRES?

This opportunity is open to state-private universities that meet specific criteria:

Established Track Record: The university must have been operational for at least five years, demonstrating stability and experience.

State Law Alignment: The state where the university operates must have a legal provision allowing the establishment of off-campus centres within its State University Act.

Long-Term Infrastructure: The university needs to own the land for the off-campus centre or have a lease agreement for a minimum of 30 years. This ensures a secure and long-lasting location.

UGC Approval Process: A formal proposal outlining the new centre must be submitted to a UGC standing committee for review and approval, guaranteeing adherence to set regulations.

BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS

This initiative holds immense potential for students, particularly those residing in smaller towns and cities. Here's how they stand to gain:

Increased Access: Students can now pursue degrees from their preferred private universities at centres closer to home. This eliminates the need to relocate to the university's main campus, reducing geographical barriers.

Potentially Lower Costs: By studying closer to home, students may benefit from lower living expenses compared to the main campus location. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of education.

Wider Choice (for specific states): States with a high population density, like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka, are expected to see a surge in off-campus centres. This translates to a wider variety of universities and programmes for students in these regions.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

It's important to note that while no state-private university has received off-campus centre approval yet, some private deemed-to-be universities already have such centres sanctioned by the UGC.

The UGC will conduct quarterly inspections of these off-campus centres to ensure they maintain the high standards expected of the main campus. Failure to comply with regulations could result in the centre's closure and student relocation to the main campus.

Furthermore, universities will need to pay a processing fee of Rs 10 lakh to establish an off-campus centre.

INDUSTRY EXPERTS' VIEW

Education experts have lauded this move. Akash Sharma, Director of Admissions and Outreach at Noida International University, believes it will "promote excellence in education" by allowing universities to expand their reach and offer wider learning opportunities. Similarly, Rohin Kapoor of BDO India sees this as a significant growth opportunity for private universities while enhancing access to quality education infrastructure.

This policy change by the UGC is a positive step towards achieving the NEP 2020's goals of inclusivity and accessibility in higher education. Students across India, particularly those in smaller towns, are poised to benefit from a wider range of educational options closer to home.