New Delhi
Officials have announced that the University Grants Commission (UGC) is set to take action against EdTech companies offering online degree and diploma courses in collaboration with foreign universities. A public notice issued by the UGC emphasized that no foreign higher educational institution is permitted to offer programs in India without prior approval from the commission.
The move follows a Delhi High Court directive in September instructing the UGC to address universities and colleges providing unspecified degrees, ensuring compliance with the law, including penal provisions. The UGC’s notice, dated December 12, highlighted that certain EdTech companies were advertising degree and diploma programs online in partnership with foreign universities, emphasizing that such franchise arrangements lack UGC recognition.
The officials affirmed that actions would be taken against the non-compliant EdTech companies and higher education institutions (HEIs) under applicable laws, rules, and regulations. The notice further addressed collaborations between HEIs, colleges, and foreign-based educational institutions that lack UGC recognition, stating that degrees issued through such arrangements are also not recognized by the Commission. The UGC aims to uphold accreditation standards and regulate online education offerings in collaboration with foreign entities.
