DTF opposes NET for PhD, MPhil degree holders

New Delhi, May 9 (UNI) The Democratic Teachers' Front today opposed the reported move by UGC to make passing of the National Eligibility Test compulsory for PhD and MPhil degree holders, seeking teaching jobs in higher educational institutions.

''It is unacceptable that such a move is based on an argument by the B N Mungerkar Committee that the quality of research and hence of the research degrees in some universities is not of high standard,'' a DTF spokesperson said.

''The UGC is mandate is to maintain minimum standard - to redress the situation instead of taking it as fait accompli. A test like the NET itself has been questioned by the academia,'' he added.

PhD and MPhil degree holders were exempted from the requirement that they clear the National Eligibility Test to become eligible for teaching in higher educational institutions.

The spokesperson said DTF was disappointed over the UGC's handling of the issue.

''This is the third time that the exemptions were given and it will be the third time that the exemptions are being withdrawn. The fact that the same set of arguments for and against is used every time has strengthened the perception that such an exemption is given to accommodate specific candidates and is withdrawn thereafter,'' he added.

Urging UGC not to ''devalue research'', the DTF called upon the Commission to continue with the present position of exemption from the NET.

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