UGC Mandates Transparency: New Guidelines for Higher Education Institutions' Public Self-Disclosure
HEIs are expected to disclose comprehensive information on their websites, including an overview of the institution, Act and Statutes, Institutional Development Plan, Constituent Units, Affiliated Colleges, etc.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a directive to heads of all higher education institutions across India, emphasizing the need to follow the "Guidelines on Public Self-Disclosure by Higher Education Institutions, 2024". This move aligns with the principles outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which underscores the importance of transparent self-disclosure by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
The NEP 2020 highlights transparent self-disclosure as a fundamental principle, ensuring HEIs are accountable to stakeholders by providing transparent access to relevant records. The availability of such information in the public domain is deemed crucial for maintaining accountability within the higher education system. Stakeholders, including students, parents, research scholars, prospective students, regulatory bodies, accreditation agencies, alumni, and the general public, often seek information from the websites of HEIs. To meet this need, the UGC has approved comprehensive guidelines during its 580th meeting held on May 15, 2024.
The guidelines stipulate that all HEIs must maintain a functional website that provides relevant information to stakeholders. The website must ensure unrestricted access to information, without requiring any registration or login. Additionally, a 'Search' facility should be available to facilitate easy navigation. HEIs are expected to disclose comprehensive information on their websites, including an overview of the institution, Act and Statutes, Institutional Development Plan, Constituent Units, Affiliated Colleges, and Off-campus/Learning Support Centres under ODL mode if applicable. Details regarding accreditation and ranking status (NAAC, NBA, NIRF), recognition and approval (such as 2(f) and 12B status), annual reports, annual accounts including the balance sheet, income and expenditure account, receipts and payments account, and audit report must also be included. Information about any sponsoring body should be provided if applicable.
The guidelines aim to ensure that information is easily accessible to various stakeholders without any barriers, fostering a fair and transparent system that contributes to the growth of the Indian higher education system. The UGC has urged all HEIs to take necessary measures to comply with these guidelines, ensuring transparency and accountability. By doing so, HEIs can better serve their stakeholders and uphold the standards of the Indian higher education system.
For more details, the UGC has attached a copy of the "Guidelines on Public Self-Disclosure by Higher Education Institutions, 2024" with the letter sent to the heads of all higher education institutions. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the transparency and accountability of higher education institutions in India, in line with the objectives of the NEP 2020.
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Abhay an alumnus of IIMC and Delhi University, has over a decade long experience of reporting on various beats of journalism. During his free time he prefers listening to music or play indoor and outdoor games.