DESIGNING EFFECTIVE HIGHER EDUCATION POLICY IN INDIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Abstract
Purpose: In the 21st century, higher education is essential for the socio-economic growth and progress of a nation. The Sustainable Development Goals' fourth goal focuses on achieving quality education, inclusivity, and uniform opportunities for all by 2030. India is the 3rd largest education center, after China and the United States, in terms of student population and number of institutions. However, Indian universities do not rank among the top 150 globally according to international rating agencies. This raises important questions about the effectiveness of education policies in promoting inclusive growth, the challenges faced by the Indian education system, and how Indian universities can be converted into world-class institutions. This study aims to identify key challenges, highlight opportunities, and propose ways to elevate Indian universities to world-class status.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The research is predominantly descriptive in nature and is based on sources from national and international literature. Information was gathered from surveys, websites, academic papers, articles, journals, and governmental publications.
Findings: The research indicates that, despite the establishment of numerous universities and colleges in India since gaining independence seven decades ago, access to higher education remains uneven. Enhancing the quality and standards of education, expanding the number of educational institutions, and increasing financial resources are imperative to sustain growth in the education sector. Moreover, challenges encompass low female participation in the gross enrollment ratio (GER) at the higher education level, insufficient infrastructure in colleges and universities, a scarcity of qualified teaching professionals, and shortcomings in research standards, innovation, and library amenities. University and college administration also grapples with issues like excessive centralization, bureaucratic and political interference, as well as a lack of transparency, accountability, and professionalism.
Research Limitations/Implications: The present research investigates the existing condition of higher education and policy-making procedures in India, and its conclusions may not be relevant to other nations. The study heavily depends on secondary data, and the precision of its analysis is contingent upon the dependability of these sources.
Originality/Value: The findings of the research can support policymakers in creating strong, durable, and adaptable educational strategies to enhance the higher education system in India. Scholars may utilize this information to create frameworks that help Indian universities become top-tier institutions in line with sustainable development goals.
