UGC Directs Higher Education Institutions to Establish Equal Opportunity and SC-ST Cells

UGC Directs Higher Education Institutions to Establish Equal Opportunity and SC-ST Cells

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a directive to all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to establish Equal Opportunity Cells (EOCs) and SC/ST Cells to ensure equitable access to higher education and address grievances of disadvantaged groups.

The UGC's move aligns with Supreme Court's directives concerning caste discrimination in HEIs. Institutions are required to submit data on the implementation of the UGC Regulations, 2012, by January 20, 2025.

Ranchi, Special Correspondent: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued directives to higher education institutions to set up Equal Opportunity and SC-ST Cells. Institutions have been asked to provide complete details regarding the implementation of these cells by January 20. The initiative aims to address grievances of marginalized groups and ensure fair treatment and protection of their rights.

The cells will primarily focus on resolving challenges faced by Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), women, minorities, and differently-abled individuals. These measures aim to reduce inequalities and provide support to the underprivileged.

Key responsibilities of the cells will include:

1. Ensuring adequate representation of SC-ST groups in academic and non-academic positions as well as student admissions.

2. Acting as grievance redressal units for students and staff from marginalized groups.

3. Assisting in resolving their academic and administrative issues.

4. Promoting constitutional awareness regarding their rights.

5. Creating employment opportunities within institutions.

The UGC is also developing a comprehensive database to ensure effective and transparent grievance redressal for these groups. This database will play a critical role in safeguarding the rights and resolving the complaints of the disadvantaged.

This initiative underscores UGC's commitment to promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities across the higher education spectrum.

 The UGC letter reads: “In compliance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s directives in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding caste discrimination in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), UGC has been instructed to collect and submit data from all HEIs concerning the implementation of the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2012.”

The UGC in its letter emphasizes the role of education as a tool for achieving social and economic equality. The establishment of these cells aims to address challenges faced by marginalized communities, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC – non-creamy layer), women, minorities, and differently-abled individuals.

The Equal Opportunity Cells will focus on reducing disparities, supporting disadvantaged groups, and sensitizing stakeholders about their constitutional rights. HEIs are expected to create a transparent mechanism for grievance redressal, ensuring the protection of rights and fair treatment for all.

Institutions have been requested to provide information on their compliance through a prescribed Google form link shared by the UGC. This initiative reinforces the commission's commitment to fostering inclusive higher education in India.