29-04-2024
12 Views
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued
a directive aimed at tightening regulations governing the admission of foreign
nationals into open and distance learning (ODL) programmes offered by Indian
higher education institutions (HEIs). The move underscores the Commission's
commitment to upholding academic integrity and ensuring adherence to the
prescribed guidelines outlined in the UGC (Open and Distance Learning
Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020.
In a notice circulated to all HEIs, the UGC has
unequivocally instructed institutions to refrain from admitting foreign
nationals into ODL programmes. This directive stems from the eligibility
criteria specified in Annexure III of the UGC regulations, which explicitly
limits enrollment in such programmes to learners residing within the
territorial boundaries of India.
The Commission's decision is rooted in Regulation
23 of the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes)
Regulations, 2020, which stipulates that learners residing in India are
permitted to enrol in ODL programmes. The regulation further emphasises that
all academic activities, including admissions and examinations, must be
conducted within the territorial jurisdiction of the offering institution.
Reinforcing the UGC's stance, the Ministry of Home
Affairs has provided additional clarification regarding the issuance of student
visas for international students seeking to enrol in distance learning programmes.
The ministry has explicitly stated that student visas cannot be granted to
foreign nationals intending to pursue courses offered by franchise educational
institutes, off-campus centres, or study centres of open universities offering
distance learning programmes. This restriction extends to outreach programmes
and courses lacking regulatory sanctions.
In light of these guidelines, the UGC has directed
all HEIs authorised to offer ODL programmes to strictly comply with the
regulations. Institutions have been instructed to refrain from enrolling
foreign nationals in such programmes, ensuring adherence to the territorial
jurisdiction requirements outlined in Annexure III of the UGC regulations.
The enrolment of ODL programmes will be restricted
to learners residing within India, upholding the Commission's commitment to
maintaining academic standards and ensuring a level playing field for domestic
students.
The UGC's directive is a proactive measure aimed
at safeguarding the integrity of ODL programmes and preventing potential
malpractices or misuse of the system. By restricting foreign admission, the
Commission seeks to ensure that the resources and infrastructure dedicated to
distance learning are primarily utilised by Indian residents, aligning with the
intended purpose of these programmes.
This move has significant implications for both
HEIs and international students seeking to pursue distance learning
opportunities in India. Institutions will need to thoroughly review their
admission processes and implement stringent checks to ensure compliance with
the UGC guidelines. International students, on the other hand, may need to
explore alternative avenues or consider on-campus programmes if they wish to
pursue higher education in India.
The UGC's directive on restricting foreign
admission in ODL programmes underscores the Commission's commitment to
upholding academic integrity and ensuring compliance with regulatory
frameworks. By enforcing these guidelines, the UGC aims to maintain the
credibility of distance learning programmes and prioritise the educational
needs of Indian residents. As HEIs adapt to these changes, all stakeholders
must collaborate and work towards maintaining the quality and accessibility of
higher education in India.
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