FEDCUTA Demands 6% GDP Education Expenditure, Immediate Scrapping of NTA and Parliamentary Probe

Reiterating its resolution from the National Convention in July 2023, FEDCUTA calls for the immediate roll-back of NEP 2020.

The Federation of Central Universities Teachers’ Associations (FEDCUTA) has issued a press statement drawing attention to the escalating crisis in higher education in India. As a representative body of teachers nationwide, FEDCUTA has highlighted several critical concerns, calling for urgent action from the government.

Dangerous Repercussions of Over-centralization

FEDCUTA has criticized the increasing centralization of higher education, emphasizing that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic without parliamentary discussion, is being imposed on educational institutions without adequate consultation. This move, they argue, undermines equity, accessibility, affordability, social justice, and academic autonomy. The implementation of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) has, according to FEDCUTA, reduced access to higher education and fueled the growth of private coaching centers.

Accountability of the National Testing Agency (NTA)

The press statement also addresses the accountability of the National Testing Agency (NTA), which has faced criticism due to recent paper leaks and delays in result declarations. FEDCUTA points out that the NTA, despite its significant role in conducting nationwide examinations, has not maintained transparency by failing to disclose its annual reports and account statements.

Demand for Roll-back of NEP 2020

Reiterating its resolution from the National Convention in July 2023, FEDCUTA calls for the immediate roll-back of NEP 2020. The association argues that the policy pushes the education system in a retrograde direction, promoting intolerance and undermining public education by encouraging commercialization and privatization.

Implementation of Reservation Policy for SC/ST/OBC/PWD Teachers

FEDCUTA highlights issues in the implementation of reservation policies in Central universities, pointing out irregularities in calculating backlog vacancies and the misuse of the "None Found Suitable" clause during faculty appointments.

Imposition of CCS Rules on Teachers

The association has also expressed concern over the imposition of Central Civil Services (CCS) Conduct Rules on university teachers, which they argue restricts freedom of expression and democratic rights. They stress that university teachers, unlike government servants, have a public role that requires independence.

Drafting of University Teachers for Election Duties

FEDCUTA has raised issues with the drafting of university faculty for extensive election duties, particularly in Assam University and Tripura University during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This, they argue, has severely disrupted academic progress and research activities.

Restoration of Old Pension Scheme

The association demands the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, arguing that the New Pension Scheme has failed to provide social security to teachers and university staff.

Key Demands

FEDCUTA has outlined several key demands, including:

Increased expenditure on education to 6% of GDP.

Immediate scrapping of the NTA and a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe into its operations.

Roll-back of NEP 2020 through a special session of Parliament.

Fulfillment of mandated reservation policies in all Central universities.

Restoration of the Old Pension Scheme for all faculty and staff.

Reaffirmation of the dignity and autonomy of teachers in all universities and colleges.

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