New Delhi: In a recent notice issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) has enforced regulations under the UGC Act, 1956, unveiling the University Grants Commission (Academic Collaboration between Indian and Foreign Higher Education Institutions to offer Twinning Programme, Joint Degree, Dual Degree Programmes) Regulations, 2022, and University Grants Commission (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023.

Under these regulations, any Foreign Higher Educational Institution intending to offer programs in India must obtain prior approval from the Commission. Notably, the regulations prohibit Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from providing programs through franchise arrangements, with such programs lacking recognition from the UGC.

The UGC has identified instances where HEIs/colleges collaborated with foreign-based educational entities unrecognized by the Commission, leading to the issuance of non-recognized degrees. The Commission emphasizes that any collaboration of this nature is not acknowledged, and degrees obtained through such arrangements lack UGC recognition.

Furthermore, the UGC has flagged advertisements by certain EdTech companies promoting online degree and diploma programs in association with foreign universities/institutions. Such franchise arrangements are deemed impermissible, and degrees from such programs will not be recognized by the UGC.

To ensure compliance, the UGC vows to take action against defaulting EdTech companies and HEIs under applicable laws and regulations. Students and the general public are strongly advised to exercise caution, as courses/programs/degrees lacking UGC recognition may pose risks and consequences.

UGC also reminded the importance of due diligence, cautioning individuals against enrolling in programs without UGC recognition and emphasizing the potential risks associated with such decisions.