NCERT now ‘deemed to be university’; to offer higher education courses| India News
NCERT Elevates Education Standards with Deemed University Status
The National Council of Educational Research and Training NCERT has been granted the prestigious ‘deemed-to-be university’ status, marking a significant evolution in India’s educational landscape. This elevation, announced during NCERT’s 63rd Foundation Day celebrations, signifies a pivotal step towards enhancing higher education, particularly in the critical field of teacher training and educational research.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan confirmed the new status, highlighting its potential to empower NCERT to offer a comprehensive range of academic programs. This move allows the institution to design and award its own degrees, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral qualifications, directly impacting future educators and researchers across the nation.
What ‘Deemed-to-Be University’ Means for NCERT
For many, the term ‘deemed-to-be university’ might sound complex. In simple terms, it means an institution, though not a full-fledged university established by an Act of Parliament or State Legislature, is granted the autonomy to conduct specialized courses, examinations, and award degrees. This recognition is bestowed by the central government, usually on the advice of the University Grants Commission UGC. For NCERT, this means greater independence in curriculum design and academic administration, ensuring its programs are highly relevant and responsive to national educational needs.
The primary focus of these new offerings will be Integrated Teacher Education Programmes ITEP, along with Bachelor of Education B.Ed, Master of Education M.Ed, and Ph.D. programs specifically in education. This directly addresses the need for high-quality, professionally trained teachers, crucial for shaping the minds of future generations. The Regional Institute of Education RIE campuses, integral to NCERT’s operations, will now function as constituent units of this new deemed university, streamlining educational delivery.
Controlled Expansion Off-Campus and Offshore
A crucial aspect of NCERT’s expanded mandate is its ability to establish off-campus and offshore centres. However, this expansion comes with a significant safeguard: it will occur “only in accordance with the norms and guidelines issued by the UGC.” This stipulation is vital. It ensures that any new centre, whether within India or abroad, adheres to the strict quality and operational standards set by the UGC, maintaining the academic integrity and reputation of NCERT’s programs. This regulated growth prevents arbitrary expansion and upholds the quality benchmarks expected of a university. Omni 360 News understands this careful approach underscores a commitment to quality over mere expansion.
This development is anticipated to significantly impact the quality of teacher education and research, aligning with India’s National Education Policy NEP goals. By fostering cutting-edge pedagogy and research, NCERT aims to produce educators who are not just knowledgeable but also equipped with innovative teaching methodologies.
Key Takeaways
* NCERT is now a ‘deemed-to-be university’, granting it autonomy to award its own degrees.
* New programs will primarily focus on Integrated Teacher Education Programmes ITEP, B.Ed, M.Ed, and Ph.D. in education.
* Off-campus and offshore centres are permitted strictly under UGC norms, ensuring quality control.
* This status aims to elevate teacher education and educational research standards in India.
