The University Grants Commission (UGC) announced on April 7 that its chairperson, Professor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, has stepped down from the role. The UGC shared a message on social media thanking him and calling his time in office one that brought several big changes focused on students and institutions across the higher education sector.
Professor Kumar was appointed as UGC chairperson in February 2022, following his term as the Vice Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University. His leadership at the UGC was marked by key steps in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
During his tenure, many major changes were introduced. These included the launch of the National Credit Framework and the Academic Bank of Credits, which aim to offer more flexibility to students. Degree courses were restructured to allow multiple entry and exit points, giving learners the freedom to pause and resume education.
The eligibility for PhD was also made more flexible for candidates who qualified for NET or JRF. A new four-year undergraduate programme (FYUP) was introduced, and entrance tests like CUET were made mandatory for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. The use of digital platforms like SWAYAM and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) was also pushed to promote online education.
Prof Kumar's term ended as he reached the age of 65, the official retirement age for the position. The UGC praised his passion for education and his efforts to promote NEP 2020 throughout his time in office.
In a message sent to Indiatimes, the former chairman confirmed his retirement.?
The UGC wished him well for the future and said his ability to connect with people and his dedication to education will be remembered warmly.
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