The University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled draft guidelines introducing transformative changes to recruitment and promotion practices in higher education. The proposed regulations, under the 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, aim to modernise academia by promoting inclusivity, flexibility, and innovation.
Assistant Professor Eligibility Redefined
Postgraduates with a Master of Engineering (ME) or Master of Technology (MTech) degree securing a minimum of 55% marks may now directly qualify for assistant professor roles without needing to clear the National Eligibility Test (NET). This move is set to streamline academic opportunities for engineering and technology graduates.
Expanded Scope for Teaching Disciplines
In a departure from traditional eligibility norms, candidates holding a PhD in a specific subject can teach in their area of specialisation, even if their undergraduate or master’s degree was in a different discipline. For instance, a PhD holder in Chemistry with a bachelor’s in Mathematics and a master’s in Physics can now teach Chemistry.
Promotions Based on Quality Contributions
The draft proposes the removal of the Academic Performance Indicator (API) system for faculty promotions. Instead, it emphasizes qualitative contributions, such as research publications, innovative teaching, digital content creation, and securing research funding. For promotion to associate professor, candidates must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:
- Eight research publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Eight book chapters or a book with a reputed publisher
- Eight granted patents
Non-Academic Leaders Eligible for VC Roles
In a groundbreaking shift, senior professionals from public administration, industry, and public policy with at least 10 years of experience can apply for vice-chancellor (VC) positions, provided they have demonstrable academic contributions. The streamlined VC selection process will involve a three-member panel representing the Visitor or Chancellor, the UGC, and the university’s apex body.
Short-Term Contractual Faculty
To address urgent teaching needs, institutions may hire contractual teachers for a maximum of six months. These appointments will follow the same eligibility and selection standards as regular faculty, ensuring parity in remuneration.
Call for Feedback
Stakeholders and the public can share their feedback on the proposed guidelines until February 5, 2025.
For a detailed review, the full draft guidelines are available on the UGC website.
