New UGC guidelines for distance learning: All you need to know

New UGC guidelines for distance learning: The University Grants Commission (UGC) for students has come up with guidelines for distance learning, telling the varsities to ensure that they should adhere to the duration of the academic session, the prohibition of franchising agreement and ensure all activities are within the territorial jurisdiction. The guidelines have been issued for students enrolling in distance learning programmes.  

"Please ensure that the minimum duration, nomenclature and qualification for degree programme under which they are enrolling is strictly as per UGC notification on the specification of degrees and its amendments," said UGC Secretary Rajnish Jain in a notice listing the precautions need to be taken by students before enrolling in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes.

"Also ensure that all activities of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) including admission, counselling sessions, contact programmes, programme delivery and examinations are strictly conducted within the territorial jurisdiction," he added.

The UGC has also ensured that no university whether central, state, private or deemed to be university, can offer its programmes through franchising agreements with private coaching institutions for admitting learners and conducting courses through open and distance learning and online mode.  

"Please ensure that the admission process is carried out through the headquarters of the HEIs in a transparent manner. The learners are also advised to verify all details as claimed by the institution on the website. If any deviation is noticed, please communicate the same to UGC for necessary punitive action as per provisions defined under respective regulations," Jain said.  

The commission has also decided to revise academic session for this year. It will be kept as a period of 12 months starting from September-October, 2020 and February-March, 2021.