After facing attacks from the Opposition parties and academics for proposing de-reservation in faculty appointments, the University Grants Commission on Wednesday issued guidelines to provide “equitable opportunity” for the Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs).
The guidelines, prepared by an expert committee headed by Manikrao M Salunkhe, have recommended setting up a SEDGs Cell in every higher education institution (HEI) approved by the UGC for implementing policies and constitutional rights such as reservation, sensitising all stakeholders, monitoring, equalising access to inclusive quality higher education, ensuring respectful dignity, promoting egalitarian and constitutional values, and grievance redressal.
Improving equitable access through bridge courses, earn-while-learn, and outreach programme are other suggestions of the panel. Extending and ensuring basic facilities and amenities to SEDGs for inclusive, healthy, safe, and secure environments on campuses is the aim of the guidelines.
