UGC to set up regulating authority for deemed varsities

Bangalore, Jul 6 (UNI) With a view to ensure inclusive higher education for all social groups, the University Grants Commission (UGC) is working out a strategy for setting up a 'mechanism' to regulate both admission and fee structures in Deemed Universities across the country.

Speaking to mediapersons after receiving the Honorary Doctorate degree conferred by the Gulbarga University at a special function in Rajbhavan here today, UGC Chairman Sukhadeo Thorat said, to address the issue of access to higher education for all, efforts were being made to set up a 'mechanism.' Prof Thorat said, ''The status of Deemed Universities are being conferred on various autonomous higher education institutions across the country as per the Universities Act.'' However, several issues, including access to higher education for all social groups, had cropped up in these deemed universities and the UGC was holding discussion with all stake holders to deal with the issue.

Stating that, ''A mechanism is in the pipeline to address the issue,'' Prof Thorat said the Centre had taken a major initiative for promoting of higher education and inclusive higher education to all social groups is the thrust area in its approach.

Replying to questions, he expressed satisfaction over the utilisation of funds released by the UGC during 2007-08 for all the universities in the country.

He, however, clarified that UGC was not providing any grants to any private university.

UNI MV SJ PD PM1340