The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a grave warning regarding the proliferation of online degree programs utilizing deceptive abbreviations, such as BBA and MBA, which may lead to confusion among students and stakeholders.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a grave warning regarding the proliferation of online degree programs utilizing deceptive abbreviations, such as BBA and MBA, which may lead to confusion among students and stakeholders. Through a public announcement, Mr. Manish Joshi, the UGC Secretary, emphasized the emergence of certain online courses employing acronyms reminiscent of recognized higher education degrees. Specifically, he pointed to the '10 Days MBA' program as an example that has captured the Commission's attention.
Joshi highlighted that the UGC regulates the naming conventions of degrees, including their abbreviated forms, with prior sanction from the central government, typically disseminated through official gazette notifications. He clarified that only universities established under specific legislative acts or institutions recognized as universities by parliamentary decrees hold the authority to confer degrees. Joshi reiterated the prerequisite for higher education institutions to secure UGC endorsement before offering any online degree programs. He urged stakeholders to verify the authenticity of online programs prior to application or enrolment, directing them to a comprehensive list of recognized Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) offering online programs and sanctioned online courses available on the UGC's official portal.
This cautionary measure from the UGC comes amidst growing apprehensions surrounding the surge of questionable online educational ventures. It highlights the critical need for discernment and scrutiny in navigating the increasingly intricate terrain of digital education.
By sounding the alarm against misleadingly named online programs, the UGC emphasizes the imperative for heightened transparency and accountability in the domain of virtual learning. As more individuals seek educational avenues online, ensuring the legitimacy and educational integrity of the programs they pursue becomes of utmost importance.
The UGC's advisory serves as a timely notice to both students and educational institutions to exercise prudence in validating the credibility of online educational offerings. Adhering to these guidelines will enable stakeholders to shield themselves against potential malfeasance and ensure that they receive reputable education from credible sources.