UGC’s Assistant Professor Recruitment Decision Sparks Concerns – You are aware that the University Grants Commission (UGC) published a notice on July 5 detailing the minimum qualifications required for assistant professor positions. There are two opposing views about this decision. You will find the perspectives of current faculty members and those who have a Ph.D. degree outlined in the following article.

Minimal assistant professor recruitment criterion

The University Grants Commission (UGC) had already reached the conclusion that obtaining a passing score on the National Eligibility Test (NET), the Set, or the SLET is a prerequisite for anybody interested in applying for the position of associate professor. However, the decision was not unanimously approved by everyone, and each person was entitled to their own point of view.

Ph.D. students and faculty members who were already employed at the institution voiced their opposition to this decision and expressed concern that it may lower the overall quality of the assistant professors. They also noted that those who possess a Ph.D. go through an intensive learning process that lasts around four to five years when they are enrolled in the Ph.D. program. Additionally, the candidates get assistance in preparation for the Ph.D. research that they will conduct as a result of this procedure. On the other hand, there are many who are of the opinion that people will still favor candidates who have a Ph.D. since they have a great deal of experience and knowledge and are also seen to be fair.

What do professors say?

In addition, former members of the UGC point out that this decision makes things more unclear for the applicant rather than bringing them clarity. In the past, having a strong academic background was essential for one to be considered for the job of associate professor. Because of this, having a doctoral degree was seen to be quite advantageous for a person.

Conclusion

One possible conclusion is that the vast majority of the candidates are pleased with the outcome of the vote. On the other hand, the professors and other academics who possess doctoral degrees hold divergent viewpoints, and they believe that this might bring to a decline in the overall quality of the educational process.