UGC Approves New Framework for Vice-Chancellor Selection in Universities and Colleges

New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) The University Grants Commission (UGC) has validated a draft concerning the essential qualifications required for the appointment of academic staff in universities and colleges throughout the nation.

The updated regulations also modify the selection procedure for vice-chancellors, broadening the eligibility criteria to encompass professionals from academia, research institutions, public policy, public administration, and industry.

As per the new guidelines, to qualify for the position of a vice-chancellor, a candidate must be a distinguished individual with outstanding academic credentials and proven administrative and leadership skills. They should exhibit a strong commitment to constitutional values, social responsibility, teamwork, pluralism, and possess the ability to collaborate with diverse groups, alongside a flair for innovation and a global perspective on higher education. Additionally, they should have a comprehensive vision for the institution and the capability to handle complex situations, along with a minimum of 10 years of experience in one of the following: (i) as a professor in a higher educational institution (HEI), (ii) in a senior role at respected research or academic administrative bodies, or (iii) in senior positions within industry, public administration, public policy, or public sector enterprises, while also demonstrating significant academic or scholarly contributions.

The guidelines stipulate that selection for the Vice-Chancellor's role will be conducted via a nationwide newspaper advertisement and public notification.

Applications may also be invited through nominations or a talent search process executed by a Search-cum-Selection Committee.

These regulations clearly outline the composition of the V-C's search-cum-selection committee, along with tenure, age restrictions, eligibility for reappointment, and the formation of the committee.

The new regulations will be applicable to Central, state, private, and deemed universities.

The guidelines also define the role of the chancellor.

The chancellor/visitor will form the Search-cum-Selection Committee comprising three experts.

Members of this committee will be distinguished individuals with an exemplary track record (either Directors/Vice-Chancellors or former Directors/Vice-Chancellors of HEIs) and must not have any ties to the university or its affiliated colleges.

If the Vice-Chancellor or any member of the Executive Council/Syndicate/Board of Management/equivalent body is a candidate for the Vice-Chancellor position, they must recuse themselves from discussions regarding the agenda item related to the nominee of the Executive Council/Syndicate/Board of Management/equivalent body.

Violating this rule will lead to disqualification as a candidate for the Vice-Chancellor role.

The search-cum-selection committee will include a nominee of the Visitor/Chancellor, who will serve as the Chairperson, and a nominee from the UGC Chairman.

Additionally, a representative from the university's apex body, such as the Syndicate/Senate/Executive Council/Board of Management/equivalent body, will also be part of the committee.

The guidelines further address the appointment of a principal.

According to the updated stipulations, a Principal will be appointed for a tenure of five years, with the option for reappointment for an additional term, following the prescribed selection process.

However, they may only serve as Principal for two terms within the same college.

Upon completing their terms, the incumbent will return to their parent organization with the title of professor and in the professor grade, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for that position.

The guidelines specify the minimum qualifications, experience, and achievements necessary for any Principal.

This includes obtaining a PhD for PG colleges, and requiring a Professor/Associate Professor with a cumulative experience of at least 15 years in teaching/research at HEIs.

For UG colleges, a Professor/Associate Professor must have a minimum of 10 years of teaching/research experience in HEIs.

Additionally, a record of at least 10 research publications in peer-reviewed journals, publication of 10 book chapters, authoring four books with a reputable publisher, co-authoring eight books, or having 10 granted patents is necessary.

A combination of research publications, book chapters, and granted patents totaling 10 may also be acceptable for the appointment of a Principal.