Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 5: Minister for Higher Education Mohammad Akbar Lone has asked the Jammu University authorities to ensure strict adherence to the University Grant Commission (UGC) norms by the private colleges affiliated to the varsity.
Speaking at a high level meeting held here to discuss and review overall performance of the recognized colleges, the Minister stressed on system improvement, quality of teaching, besides streamlining and regulation of the colleges.
The Minister also stressed on introduction of job oriented courses in private recognized colleges, while asking the JU authorities to make it sure that all these colleges have required infrastructure and qualified staff to meet the quality standards of the education. He said private sector has contributed a lot towards the improvement of education standards, but at the same time stressed on close monitoring and regulation of such educational institutions in the larger interest of the public.
The representatives of Forum of Recognized Colleges (FORCE) apprised the Minister about their problems and sought early redressal of the same. The Minister gave a patient hearing and assured them that their genuine demands would be looked into.
The Minister directed the Management of the Private Colleges to strictly adhere to the prescribed University Grant Commission (UGC) norms, cautioning that any lapse in this regard will be dealt seriously.
On the occasion, the Minister also reviewed working of 7 Jammu University Off -site Campuses of Kathua, Udhampur, Kishtwar, Poonch, Reasi, Ramban and Bhaderwah.
Threadbare discussion was held on temporary budgetary support for teaching staff, rent of buildings, office expenses, creation of minimum teaching and non-teaching staff for at least three courses in each campus.
It was decided in the meeting that the matter will be taken up with the Finance and Planning Departments to finalize the requisite formalities.
Former Minister R. S. Chib, MLA Ch. Zulfikar Ali, MLA Aijaz Ahmed Jan, Vice Chancellor University of Jammu, Prof M P Singh Ishar, Special Secretary Higher Education Heemat Sharma, Director Colleges, Nalini Kohli President FORCE Jammu, Harbans Singh, Registrar University of Jammu, Prof Naresh Padha, Coordinator for all Campuses, Dr. Dawood Iqbal Baba and other concerned officers attended the meeting.
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