January 16, 2021
TED NewsDesk, New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC) directed the higher educational institutions to set up an office for foreign affairs to universalise higher education in the country. UGC called these centres as an “integral part of the internationalisation of higher education in India.”
With the implementation of New Education Policy 2020, the Centre directed the state to advertise the Indian institutes of higher education across the world, and attract students from various parts of the globe to seek higher education, in the country.
As per the UGC, these offices will “act as a liaison body between the foreign students and sponsoring agency”. They would promote India as a global destination for higher education and boost academic and research associations with international institutions. They will also look after the grievances of international students and assist them to adapt to the country. Besides, they will ensure networking. Right from providing admission related information to involving in advertising tasks and brand campaigns, these offices will welcome and assist the students regarding every issue.
“Considering the importance of an officer for International Affairs, you are requested to establish such an office in your university for undertaking activities as mentioned above. You are requested to share relevant information regarding the office for international affairs with UGC by February 15,” a letter by UGC to vice-chancellors of all universities read.
In the recent amendment of its regulations, UGC permitted the Institutions of Eminence (IoEs) to establish campuses outside India. However, the willing Institutions need to get a no-objection certificate (NoC) from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs. Besides, these IoEs can also begin their off-campus centres, with a limit of 3 in five years and maximum one in an academic year. The country has 18 Institutions of Eminence.
Source: Indian Express
