Assam introduces Higher Education Council Act 2026 for improved academic planning

The Assam government has introduced a new higher education governance structure with the passage of the Assam State Higher Education Council (ASHEC) Act, 2026, aimed at improving institutional planning, policy coordination, and academic standards across universities and colleges in the state.

Education Minister Ranoj Pegu shared the key provisions of the legislation on X, saying the new law aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to improve the overall functioning of universities and colleges.

The Act establishes the Assam State Higher Education Council (ASHEC) as the apex body for higher education in the state.

The council will work with higher education institutions to enhance academic standards, support policy implementation, and improve institutional performance.

A key provision of the legislation is the introduction of the State Higher Education Plan (SHEP), which will serve as a long-term roadmap for the development of the state's higher education system.

The plan is intended to support evidence-based policymaking by taking into account institutional requirements and available data.

The Act also seeks to improve teaching and learning by encouraging curriculum and examination reforms, promoting research and innovation, supporting accreditation, and expanding the use of technology in higher education.

To broaden participation in policymaking, the council will include representatives from the state government, vice chancellors, academicians, and regulatory bodies, enabling multiple stakeholders to contribute to higher education governance.

The legislation also emphasizes institutional autonomy alongside accountability. While universities will continue to operate independently, they will be expected to maintain transparent governance practices and uphold academic standards.

In addition, the council will collect and analyze higher education data, monitor institutional performance, and support national initiatives such as the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE).

It will also assist in planning funding allocation and infrastructure development for higher education institutions across the state.

According to Pegu, the Act has been framed in line with the recommendations of NEP 2020, which calls for the establishment of strong State Higher Education Councils to strengthen governance, planning, and academic excellence.