Professors of practice

Subject : Education / Governance

Context: UGC clears ‘professors of practice’ in all colleges, universities.

Concept :

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 had recommended integrating vocational education with general education and strengthening industry-academia collaboration in higher education institutions (HEIs).
Towards this, the UGC has taken a new initiative called “Professor of Practice”.
The UGC has not earmarked funds for the scheme and says that such experts can be paid through funding from industries or through the institution’s own funds.

“Professors of Practice” initiative of UGC:

To develop courses and curriculum to meet the industry and societal needs and enable the HEIs to work with industry experts.
To bring in distinguished experts from various fields such as engineering, science, technology, entrepreneurship, management, commerce, media, literature, etc., into the academic institutions.

Eligibility:

Distinguished experts who have made remarkable contributions in their professions from various fields.
However, this role is not open to those from the teaching profession, serving or retired.
Those who have proven expertise in their specific profession or role with at least 15 years of service/experience, preferably at a senior level.
A formal academic qualification is not considered essential for this position if they have exemplary professional practice.
These experts will also be exempted from the requirement of publications and other eligibility criteria stipulated for the recruitment of faculty members at the Professor level.
However, they should possess the skills to carry out the duties and responsibilities

Significance:

The engagement of such experts will not affect the number of sanctioned posts and the recruitment of regular faculty members.
In turn, the industry and society will benefit from trained graduates equipped with the relevant skills.

About UGC

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India is a statutory body set up in 1956, and is charged with coordination, determination and maintenance of standards of higher education.