The University Grants Commission (UGC) announced on April 7 that its Chairperson, Professor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, has stepped down from his position upon reaching the retirement age of 65.
In a heartfelt note shared on social media, the UGC extended its gratitude to Prof Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, calling his tenure a transformative chapter in India’s higher education landscape. The commission lauded him for introducing “unprecedented student-first reforms” and driving “institutional changes of lasting impact.”
Appointed in February 2022 following his role as Vice Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Prof Kumar emerged as a staunch advocate for the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. His leadership was marked by the rollout of major initiatives such as:
- Launch of the National Credit Framework and Academic Bank of Credits (ABC)
- Flexible entry and exit options in degree programs
- PhD eligibility relaxation for NET/JRF-qualified candidates
- Introduction of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP)
- Mandating the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions
- Strengthening digital and distance learning via platforms like SWAYAM and Open and Distance Learning (ODL)
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Prof Kumar’s inclusive approach and vision aligned closely with the NEP’s goals of flexibility, accessibility, and global competitiveness in Indian academia.
“His commitment to education and his warm connection with stakeholders across the board will be deeply cherished,” the UGC said in its farewell message, wishing him continued success in the future.
