UGC starts preparing guidelines for new public universities

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has started formulating a policy regarding the commencement of educational programmes after the establishment of new public universities.

A committee of five members has already been formed by convening UGC member Prof Muhammad Alamgir. The committee has been asked to submit a report on the matter soon.

The first meeting of the policy formulation committee on the related issue was held Monday on a virtual platform, according to the university regulatory body.

"Most of the new public universities are taking the initiative to start the education programme without any preparation after being established," UGC said in its observation.

"Besides, they have started conducting educational programmes in rented buildings which is impacting the mental development of the students badly. The educational process is also being disrupted. Standard education cannot be maintained in such a manner," UGC continues. That is why it is necessary to formulate a policy regarding the commencement of academic activities after the establishment of new public universities, UGC demanded. UGC Member Prof Alamgir said that new public universities are starting education programmes without finalising the infrastructure and curriculum. As a result, universities are facing various problems. "Students are also deprived of a higher education environment. It is very urgent to make policies to solve this issue," he emphasised.

If a policy is made on how to start the education programme of new public universities, quality higher education and research environment will be ensured in the country and quality graduates will be produced, he believed.

And, students will also become global market fitters, he added. The committee members said in the meeting that there is a shortage of senior teachers in the new public university and efforts are being made to continue the education programme with junior teachers. They emphasised on the preparation of the academic master plan of the university.

After the drafting of the policy, the committee will organise meetings and seminars with stakeholders on the initiation of education programmes of the new public universities.

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