Monday, May 4, 2015

Varsities should involve scholars in courses: UGC

KOLHAPUR: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a circular asking universities and colleges to involve scholars, policymakers and skilled professionals in academic courses. The commission's objective is to tide over the shortage of faculty and boost education skills across all universities.

In a circular dated April 27, the UGC said it is imperative that the expertise and experience of such individuals, who are outside the mainstream academic system, flow into the universities. The circular stated that this would enhance, strengthen and improve the quality of teaching, training and research. "The current phase in higher education and the huge diversity in programmes also necessitates that faculty resources be augmented by using academic outside the university system," it said.

The circular suggests that for this, reputed scientists, engineers, physicians, advocates and artists, civil servants including skilled professionals, serving as well as retired be included.

A Shivaji University, Kolhapur (SUK) official on the UGC circular said that the decision to appoint or invite adjunct faculty members to a particular college or university will always be welcome.

"The UGC has given a gentle reminder to universities nationwide to put into practice guidelines to enhance academic communication between the experts and the students. This scheme of introducing adjunct faculty positions for professional courses was drawn long ago and has received a positive feedback from institutions" the official said.

The UGC started the scheme of appointing adjunct faculty and visiting faculty since 2009 in universities across the country.

According to its earlier September 2009 circular, professionals and experts from the institutions such as research organisations supported by the Atomic energy commission (AEC), Indian Council of Agriculture research (ICAR) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) along with overseas academicians and researchers will be involved.

In its 12{+t}{+h} five-year plan in 2012, the UGC stated a hike in remuneration of such faculties to increase their involvement in academics.

No comments:

Post a Comment

NEWS TODAY 20.09.2024