National Education Policy 2020 in Higher Education | 27 Sep 2023

Source: TH

Why in News?

In a special session of Parliament, the Parliament Standing Committee on Education, presented a comprehensive report on the "Implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in Higher Education."

• The report examined the progress and challenges in implementing this significant policy shift in India's higher education sector.

What are the Major Highlights of the Report?

• Diversity of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs):
  • The report emphasized that a significant portion of India's higher education system operates under State Acts, with 70% of universities falling under this category.
  • Furthermore, 94% of students are enrolled in State or private institutions, leaving just 6% in Central higher educational institutions.
    • This underscores the critical role played by States in providing higher education
• Key Issues Discussed:
  • Disciplinary Rigidity: The panel raised concerns about the rigid separation of disciplines, which can hinder interdisciplinary learning and innovation.
  • Limited Access in Disadvantaged Areas: Access to higher education in socio-economically disadvantaged regions remains limited, impeding the equitable distribution of educational opportunities.
  • Language Barriers: There's a dearth of higher education institutes (HEIs) that offer instruction in local languages, potentially excluding a substantial section of the population.
  • Faculty Shortage: A scarcity of qualified faculty members is plaguing the higher education sector, adversely impacting the quality of education.
  • Lack of Institutional Autonomy: Many institutions face a lack of autonomy, hindering their ability to adapt and innovate.
  • Research Emphasis: The panel noted a diminished emphasis on research within the current higher education system.
  • Ineffective Regulatory System: The regulatory framework governing higher education was deemed ineffective, requiring comprehensive reform.
  • Concern Related to Multiple Entry Multiple Exit Programme: The panel expressed concerns that implementing the MEME system in Indian institutions, while flexible in theory, may not align effectively due to unpredictability in student entry and exits. This unpredictability could disrupt the pupil-teacher ratio.
• Recommendations:
  • Equitable Funding: Both the Union and State Governments should allocate sufficient funds to support Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) in higher education.
    • Clear targets for the Gross Enrolment Ratio should be set for SEDGs to ensure increased access to higher education.
  • Gender Balance: Efforts should be made to enhance gender balance in admissions to HEIs.
  • Inclusive Admissions and Curriculum: Admission processes and curriculum should be made more inclusive to cater to diverse learner needs.
  • Regional Language Courses: Development of more degree courses taught in regional languages and bilingually should be encouraged.
  • Accessibility for Physically Challenged: Specific infrastructural steps should be taken to make higher education institutions more accessible to physically challenged students.
  • Anti-discrimination Measures: Strict enforcement of no-discrimination and anti-harassment rules was recommended to ensure a safe and inclusive environment.
  • HEFA Diversification: The Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) should diversify its funding sources beyond government allocations.
    • Exploration of partnerships with private sector organizations, philanthropic foundations, and international financial institutions for funding should be pursued.