New Delhi: A warning has been issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and EdTech firms offering online and open and distance learning (ODL) programmes under franchise arrangements.
According to the commission, some EdTech companies have claimed that they are offering ODL and online courses in association with UGC recognised institutions and universities, which is not permissible.
“It has come to the notice of UGC recently that some EdTech companies are giving advertisements in newspaper / social media/television etc. that they are offering degree and diploma programmes in ODL/Online modes in association with some universities/institutions recognized/entitled by the UGC. Such a franchisee arrangement is not permissible and action will be taken against defaulting EdTech companies as well as HEIs under applicable laws/rules/regulations,” said the UGC.
“Higher Educational Institutions (HEls) are recognized/declared entitled by the UGC for offering ODL and/or Online programmes as per the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020 and its amendment,” the higher education regulatory body added.
According to the regulations, HEIs are not allowed to offer these courses under franchise arrangements and the institutions are completely responsible for the courses.
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