The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued comprehensive guidelines for state private universities interested in establishing off-campus centers within their respective states. These guidelines, revealed following the 577th Meeting of the Commission on February 13, 2024, offer a clear blueprint for universities to adhere to when creating off-campus facilities.
As per the UGC notification, state private universities seeking to establish off-campus centers must meet the following criteria:
1. Eligibility: Only state private universities with at least five years of academic activity or program completion at their main campus are eligible.
2. Legal provisison: Universities must operate within the jurisdiction outlined by the State University Act, which should include provisions for off-campus center establishment.
3. Program Approval: Before commencing operations, universities must secure approval or a Letter of Intent from the relevant statutory or regulatory body for the specific programs offered at the off-campus center.
4. Ownership or Lease: Universities must have ownership rights or a lease agreement for a minimum of 30 years for the land designated for the off-campus center.
5. Infrastructure and Standards: The university must maintain high educational standards, including faculty expertise and physical infrastructure, at the off-campus center, ensuring parity with the main campus.
For complete details about the guidelines the stakeholders can check the official website.
The 'UGC (Establishment and Maintenance of Standards in Private Universities) Regulations, 2003 allows State Private Universities to set up of-campus centre(s) with the prior approval of UGC and that of the State Government.
