Minister of State of HRD clarified that the scheme of autonomous colleges is available for all colleges in India. The minister informed about the scheme in a written response to a query raised in the Rajya Sabha.
The minister further explained the scheme and said it is being implemented by the UGC to provide autonomous rights to institutes in order to improve the quality of education. Under this scheme, colleges will get academic and operative freedom, added the minister.
A college, if awarded with autonomy, will be able to able to device its own curriculum and introduce different courses. The scheme will also enable the colleges to introduce courses according to the local requirements and encourage development within the community, added the minister.
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The scheme is a way to come up with creative teaching methodology, introducing engaging examinations and incorporating effective evaluation process.
The minister said that the scheme is open for all colleges and multiple colleges under a university can also apply for the autonomous status scheme started by the UGC.
The minister also addressed the fact that colleges are granted autonomous status only if they comply with the conditions and requirements prescribed by UGC.
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In March 2017, various students and teachers of the Delhi University marched up to the Vice Chancellor’s office in a sign of protest. The Delhi University Teacher's Association (DUTA) encouraged colleges associated with the University to apply for the autonomous status.