UGC draft guidelines propose significant changes in faculty hiring and promotions

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released its latest draft guidelines, introducing substantial changes to the criteria for hiring and promoting faculty in colleges and universities. These updates aim to modernize higher education and open up new opportunities for professionals in academia.

Key Changes in Faculty Hiring

No NET Requirement for ME/MTech Postgraduates:

ME and MTech graduates with at least 55% marks can now directly qualify for assistant professor roles without clearing the National Eligibility Test (NET). This move aims to simplify entry into academic positions for engineering and technology postgraduates.

PhD Holders Can Teach Across Specializations:

Candidates with a PhD in one subject can now teach within their specialized area, even if their undergraduate or master’s degrees are in different disciplines. For instance, a PhD in chemistry could teach chemistry, regardless of prior qualifications in mathematics or physics.

New Approach to Faculty Promotions

The UGC is scrapping the Academic Performance Indicator (API) system. Promotions will now prioritize:

Research contributions (e.g., peer-reviewed journal publications).

Innovative teaching techniques and digital content development.

Successful research funding proposals.

For promotion to associate professor, candidates must meet one of the following benchmarks:

Publish eight research articles in peer-reviewed journals.

Author eight book chapters or one book with a reputed publisher.

Secure eight granted patents.

Industry Professionals Eligible for Vice-Chancellor Roles

In a groundbreaking update, the UGC will allow experienced industry leaders, public administrators, and public policy experts with at least 10 years of experience to apply for vice-chancellor positions. These candidates must demonstrate significant academic contributions, broadening the leadership pool for universities.

The selection process for vice-chancellors will also undergo changes, with a three-member panel representing the Visitor or Chancellor, the UGC, and the university’s apex body handling the appointments.

Replacement of 2018 Guidelines

The proposed regulations, titled UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025, will replace the existing 2018 guidelines.

These draft guidelines mark a significant shift in India’s higher education system, aiming to enhance flexibility, inclusivity, and innovation in academic institutions.