The fourth convocation of Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research (IISER) was held at Mohanpura, Kolkata. Union Human Resources Development (HRD) Minister, Smriti Irani made an announcement that the Indian Institutes can now collaborate with foreign universities for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
According to new guidelines, Indian Institutes wish to tie-up with foreign universities for undergraduate or postgraduate courses and should make a proposal to the University Grants Commission (UGC) directly for permission to collaborate. The students who opt for these courses will have a choice to study two semesters in abroad for any undergraduate course and one semester in case of postgraduate courses. By this amendment, the students will be profited as they will get a chance to study abroad and explore more during their studies. Earlier, only the foreign universities were allowed to register and request for permission to collaborate with Indian Institutes. This amendment will bring a change in the quality of education provided, leading to a higher level of development.
"This is a really a bold step towards the government's push to broaden the scope and improve the quality of education in the country as well as encourage healthy competition. Now Indian institutions will also not feel insecure from foreign universities as they are going to be together for collaboration and imparting education. It is indeed an appreciable move by the government towards globalization, where at each and every level we talk about being global," said Dr. G. Viswanathan, Founder & Chancellor, VIT University, Vellore & President, Education Promotion Society for India.
Under new norms, it will be ensured by the committee, that within 30 working days all applications will be responded and the applications will be disposed of within 60 working days. This is a very important decision for the Indian students who aspire to study with Foreign Educational Institutions and they will acquire a formal recognition of the programmes.