THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Dec 16: Officials announced on Saturday that the University Grants Commission (UGC) will take action against all EdTech companies that offer online degree and diploma programs in collaboration with international universities.
The UGC stated in a public notice that no foreign higher education institution can offer any programme in India without the commission’s prior clearance.
In September, the Delhi High Court mandated the University Grants Commission (UGC) to take corrective measures against universities and colleges offering unspecified degrees. The court emphasized the importance of ensuring legal compliance, including the enforcement of penal provisions related to this matter.
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Franchise arrangement not permissible
The UGC notification from December 12 stated that certain EdTech companies are running advertisements in connection with overseas universities and institutions that provide degree and certificate programs in online formats.
The officials stated that any program or degree that involves such a franchisee setup is not acceptable or permissible and would not be recognized by UGC.
“Action will also be taken against all the defaulting EdTech companies as well as the HEls under applicable laws, rules and regulations,” stated the notice.
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Collaboration not recognized by UGC
Additionally, the notice stated that a large number of colleges and higher education institutions (HEIs) had collaborated with foreign educational institutions and providers that were not recognized by the Commission, and that these institutions and providers were helping to facilitate the awarding of degrees to the students enrolled in these institutions and colleges.
“Any such kind of collaboration or arrangement is not recognised by the University Grants Commission and accordingly, the degrees issued after such collaboration and arrangement are also not recognised by the Commission,” said the notice.
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