Looking at the current scenario, it seems unlikely for the Union Human Resource Development ministry to pass the Foreign Education Providers Bill in near future, however, it seems, the MHRD ministry has no plans of giving up and advised UGC to implement AICTE-like rules for foreign university tie-ups.
The Ministry of Human Resource and Development has asked University Grants Commission to formulate regulations for the collaboration between Indian and foreign universities. As per the sources a UGC committee is being set up to carry out the task by working on the twinning formula of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).
The AICTE has framed rules for partnerships between Indian and foreign institutes in the field of technical education. As per the rules, the students enrolled for these courses can complete semesters in partner institutes.
The ‘twinning’ formula has worked fine for technical education institutes, the ministry is of the opinion that a similar format be followed for universities as well. “Most of the provisions of the Bill can be affected through UGC regulations. Only a foreign university cannot come to India and set up a standalone full-fledged campus on its own. It can, however, do so in collaboration with an Indian institute. Students enrolled will be able to complete one semester in the Indian institute and complete the rest in the foreign institute fulfilling the purpose of the Bill. This arrangement will effectively at least allow a foothold to foreign educational institutes in India,” an official said.
However, UGC has to look into degree awarding and fee regulations aspects. The regulations are expected to be framed in three-four months and approved by the UGC, paving the way for entry of foreign partners in India’s university system.
[Source : India Express]
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