Edu-leaders

In a bid to improve enrollment into the higher education courses during the 12th Plan Period, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has proposed to launch a ‘Rashtriya Uchch Shiksha Abhiyan’ (National Higher Education Mission).

According to plan, the new programme would be designed on the lines of the Sarva Sikshya Abhiyan with an aim to increase gross enrolment ratio to 25 per cent which at present is hovering at around 14 per cent.

An increase in enrollment by 62.97 lakh has been projected during the Plan Period. At least 800 new colleges under Central universities, 400 new college cluster universities and a set of other new universities under various categories would be set up in the process.

It will also work towards upgradation of autonomous colleges and promotion of evening colleges and universities. Sources pointed out that promotion of evening colleges and universities would not only help in enhancing enrolment but would also provide opportunities to working class for improving their academic and professional qualifications.

This will also help to optimally utilise the enormous infrastructure and facilities which remain unused for an average of 16-18 hours a day, sources pointed out. The proposal also calls for introduction of integrated five-year programme at the university level during the 12th Plan Period.