Hindu Editorial Analysis : 25-May-2024

Recently, the University Grants Commission (UGC) in India has introduced new regulations to welcome Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs). This move could transform the landscape of higher education in India, similar to the 1991 market reforms that opened up the economy. Prestigious universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard can now set up campuses in India, but their investment will depend on the attractiveness of the Indian market.

Current State of Higher Education in India

India now boasts a greater number of universities than China, with 1,168 universities, 45,473 colleges, and 12,002 standalone institutions, according to the All-India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-22. Notably, seven Indian institutions are in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings, with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay leading at 40th.

Key Statistics
  • Total universities: 1,168
  • Total colleges: 45,473
  • Total standalone institutions: 12,002
  • Universities established since 2014: 341
  • Women-exclusive institutions: 17 universities and 4,470 colleges

Challenges in Higher Education

Despite these numbers, significant issues remain in India’s higher education system:

Limited Access
  • Financial constraints hinder many students.
  • Rural areas often lack quality institutions.
Quality Disparities
  • A gap exists between premier institutes and others.
  • Many colleges struggle with outdated curricula and inadequate faculty.
Outdated Curriculum
  • Many programs do not align with industry standards.
  • Regular updates are necessary for relevant skill development.
Youth Migration
  • In 2022, about 450,000 Indian students studied abroad.
  • This trend reflects a strong desire for foreign education and results in capital outflow.
Lack of Research and Innovation
  • Rote learning is prioritized over research.
  • A culture of research needs to be fostered with proper funding.
Teacher Shortage and Quality
  • Many institutions face a shortage of qualified faculty.
  • Teaching quality varies widely, affecting student learning.
Employability Gap
  • Many graduates lack skills needed by employers.
  • This gap leads to high unemployment rates.
Overemphasis on Degrees
  • Students often focus on degrees rather than acquiring practical skills.

Government Initiatives

To address these challenges, the Indian government has launched several initiatives:

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
  • Aims to transform the education system for the 21st century.
  • Emphasizes multidisciplinary education and increased access.
Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA)
  • Launched in 2013 to improve state higher educational institutions.
  • Focuses on funding, infrastructure, and faculty improvement.
SWAYAM
  • An online platform offering free courses across disciplines.
  • Promotes access to quality education, especially in remote areas.
Institutions of Eminence (IoE) Scheme
  • Grants autonomy and financial assistance to select institutions.
  • Encourages global competitiveness.
National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)
  • Ranks institutions based on various educational parameters.
  • Promotes healthy competition and quality improvement.
National Research Foundation (NRF)
  • Aims to engage more institutions in scientific research.
  • Encourages collaboration between researchers and faculty.

Why In News

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently unveiled regulations to facilitate the entry of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs) in India, marking a significant step towards enhancing the quality and diversity of higher education in the country.

MCQs about The Impact of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India

  1. What recent action did the University Grants Commission (UGC) take regarding higher education in India?
    A. Increased funding for local universities
    B. Unveiled regulations for Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs)
    C. Launched a new university ranking system
    D. Restricted the establishment of new colleges
    Correct Answer: B. Unveiled regulations for Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs)
    Explanation: The UGC has introduced regulations to facilitate the entry of FHEIs in India, allowing prestigious foreign universities to set up campuses in the country.
  2. Which of the following is a significant challenge faced by higher education institutions in India?
    A. Overabundance of qualified faculty
    B. High levels of student employability
    C. Limited access for students in rural areas
    D. A uniform quality of education across all institutions
    Correct Answer: C. Limited access for students in rural areas
    Explanation: Many students, particularly in rural areas, face barriers such as financial constraints and a lack of quality institutions, making access to higher education challenging.
  3. What is one of the main goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020?
    A. To promote rote learning
    B. To transform the education system for the 21st century
    C. To limit foreign investment in education
    D. To establish more degree-only programs
    Correct Answer: B. To transform the education system for the 21st century
    Explanation: The NEP 2020 aims to modernize and improve the education system by focusing on holistic, multidisciplinary education and increasing access and equity.
  4. How many Indian institutions feature in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings?
    A. Five
    B. Seven
    C. Ten
    D. Twelve
    Correct Answer: B. Seven
    Explanation: The essay mentions that a total of seven Indian institutions are ranked among the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings, showcasing the growing recognition of Indian higher education.

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