Arun Nigavekar favours empowered colleges

Instead of bifurcation of universities, former vice-chancellor of University of Pune (UoP) Arun Nigavekar has proposed decentralisation of colleges and empowered autonomous colleges. He was speaking at a discussion on ‘Pathway for transforming higher education into a socioeconomic development force’ by Centre for Educational Development Administration here on Saturday.

Nigavekar was one of three members of a committee appointed by state to suggest changes in the education system. Nigavekar chaired the committee that has proposed amendments in Maharashtra Public Universities Act, 2011.

Among the major amendments are decentralisation of colleges at district level and establishing Maharashtra State Commission for Higher Education and Development (MAHED).

“Small is beautiful and I believe that colleges which have received ‘A’ or ‘B’ grade from National Assessment and Accreditation Committee with a cumulative grade point average above 2.5 should get autonomous college status automatically,’’ he said. 

It has been proposed to create sub-campuses and committee for sub-campuses to implement academic, administrative and governance mechanism of the parent university.

MAHED would be an umbrella organisation with full legal autonomy which would act as conduit between universities, government and society. It would be apex advisory cum supervisory council headed by chancellor, academic and development council, board of directors headed by senior academician. It will plan to create a policy and to suggest ways to implement academic, administrative and financial reforms.