University Education Commission (1948-49),

 

Point-wise recommendations and key aspects of the University Education Commission (1948-49), chaired by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan:

1. Objective and Scope:

• To review the condition of university education in India.
• Suggested reforms to improve standards and develop a better framework for higher education.

2. Curriculum Reform:

• Emphasized the need for liberal education which includes arts, humanities, and sciences.
• Suggested interdisciplinary studies to ensure holistic development of students.
• Proposed vocational courses in the curriculum to bridge the gap between education and employment.

3. Research and Innovation:

• Strong focus on promoting research culture in universities.
• Creation of research-oriented postgraduate programs.
• Encouraged the establishment of research institutes for promoting original work and innovation.

4. Teacher Qualifications and Training:

• Highlighted the importance of improving teacher standards through better qualifications and training.
• Recommended that university teachers should actively engage in research.
• Advocated for higher pay scales and benefits for teachers to attract and retain talent.

5. Autonomy of Universities:

• Advocated for greater autonomy for universities to design courses, set examination standards, and make independent decisions.
• Suggested reducing the interference of politics in the governance of universities.

6. Establishment of University Grants Commission (UGC):

• Proposed the establishment of the UGC to oversee the allocation of funds to universities.
• UGC was also tasked with regulating standards in universities and ensuring the equitable distribution of resources.

7. Examination Reforms:

• Recommended changes in the examination system to make it more comprehensive and less mechanical.
• Focus on internal assessments and continuous evaluation rather than one-time annual examinations.
• Proposed reducing the dependence on rote learning.

8. National Integration through Education:

• Suggested that universities should promote national integration and a sense of social responsibility among students.
• Encouraged the inclusion of Indian cultural heritage and moral values in the curriculum.

9. Medium of Instruction:

• Recommended the gradual introduction of regional languages as the medium of instruction at the university level.
• Emphasized that English should still be taught as a second language for global competence and research purposes.

10. Women’s Education:

• Stressed on the importance of promoting women's education and encouraged greater female participation in higher education.
• Recommended setting up more institutions for women's education and improving facilities for female students.

11. University-Community Interaction:

• Suggested that universities should not remain isolated but should work closely with the community.
• Encouraged universities to play a role in solving social and economic problems through research and extension services.

12. General Recommendations:

• Emphasized moral and character development of students.
• Encouraged international cooperation in education, such as inviting foreign scholars and establishing exchange programs.
• Proposed better facilities for libraries, laboratories, and hostels in universities.
• Recommended the improvement of student-teacher relationships to foster a better learning environment.

13. Focus on Science and Technology:

• Urged universities to pay special attention to the development of science and technology in higher education.
• Called for more funds and resources for scientific research and practical applications of science.