Professor of Practice: No PhD or NET? You Can Still Become a University Professor Under UGC's Innovative Scheme

The University Grants Commission has introduced a transformative academic initiative that allows accomplished industry professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, and experts to teach at higher education institutions without holding traditional academic qualifications such as a PhD or National Eligibility Test (NET) certification.

Known as the Professor of Practice (PoP) scheme, the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry experience by bringing seasoned professionals into universities to mentor students with practical knowledge and career-oriented skills.

What Is a Professor of Practice?

A Professor of Practice is an experienced professional who has demonstrated exceptional expertise and achievements in a particular field. Unlike conventional faculty appointments, the emphasis is placed on professional excellence rather than academic degrees.

Eligible candidates may come from diverse sectors, including:

• Engineering and technology
• Science and research
• Media and journalism
• Literature and creative writing
• Entrepreneurship and business
• Social sciences
• Performing arts and culture
• Defence and public service

Their primary role is to help students understand how theoretical concepts are applied in professional settings, preparing them for careers beyond the classroom.

Who Is Eligible?

According to the UGC guidelines, candidates should possess:

• At least 15 years of distinguished professional experience in their respective field.
• Demonstrated expertise, leadership, or outstanding contributions to industry, arts, public service, or other specialised domains.

Unlike regular teaching positions, a PhD or NET qualification is not mandatory for appointment under the Professor of Practice scheme.

Appointments are generally made for one year, with the possibility of extension based on institutional requirements and performance.

Why Did UGC Introduce This Scheme?

The initiative addresses a long-standing concern that many graduates possess strong academic knowledge but limited exposure to real-world work environments.

By appointing experienced professionals as faculty members, universities aim to:

Industry-Oriented Learning

Students gain practical insights into current industry practices, emerging technologies, and workplace expectations directly from experienced professionals.

Better Employability

Interaction with industry experts can improve students' readiness for internships, placements, and professional careers by exposing them to market-relevant skills.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Professionals from startups, businesses, and research organisations can mentor students in innovation, problem-solving, product development, and entrepreneurial thinking, helping strengthen the startup ecosystem on campuses.

Bridging Academia and Industry

The scheme encourages stronger collaboration between higher education institutions and industry, ensuring that academic curricula remain aligned with evolving workforce requirements.

CCSU Appoints Folk Singer Malini Awasthi

A notable example of the initiative is the appointment of Malini Awasthi as a Professor of Practice at **Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), Meerut.

The decision was taken under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Sangeeta Shukla.

A recipient of the Padma Shri, Malini Awasthi brings decades of experience in Indian folk music and cultural traditions. Through her engagement with students, she is expected to:

• Promote the preservation of folk arts and regional languages.
• Train students in stage performance and artistic expression.
• Provide practical guidance on career opportunities in the performing arts.
• Inspire young artists through real-life professional experiences.

A New Direction for Higher Education

The Professor of Practice initiative reflects the broader reforms underway in India's higher education system to make learning more experiential, multidisciplinary, and industry-oriented. By opening university classrooms to accomplished professionals from outside academia, the UGC seeks to ensure that students graduate with not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical competencies needed in today's dynamic job market.

As universities increasingly adopt the Professor of Practice model, students stand to benefit from direct exposure to industry leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators whose experience can complement traditional academic instruction and enhance career readiness.