Beware of Foreign universities, EdTech platforms – says UGC

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The University Grants Commission (UGC) issued a cautionary statement today, advising Indian students to avoid enrolling in courses offered by universities collaborating with foreign institutions unrecognized by the commission.

In an official notice, the UGC clarified that, in accordance with its powers under the UGC Act, 1956 (as amended), it has introduced the University Grants Commission (Academic Collaboration between Indian and Foreign Higher Education Institutions to offer Twinning Programme, Joint Degree, Dual Degree Programmes) Regulations, 2022, and University Grants Commission (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023.

The notice emphasized that these regulations stipulate that no Foreign Higher Educational Institution is permitted to offer any program in India without prior approval from the Commission.

Furthermore, the UGC issued a warning to EdTech platforms against providing degree and diploma programs in an online format. The notice highlighted that the UGC has observed certain EdTech companies advertising degree and diploma programs online in collaboration with foreign universities or institutions. Such franchise arrangements are deemed impermissible, and any program or degree offered in this manner will not receive UGC recognition, according to the statement.

The UGC concluded by stating that legal action will be taken against defaulting EdTech companies and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) under applicable laws, rules, and regulations.