Karnataka seeks UGC clarity as foreign universities plan campuses

Karnataka has moved to seek formal clarification from the University Grants Commission after multiple foreign universities expressed interest in opening campuses in the state.

The Higher Education Department will write to the UGC to understand what protections exist for students if an overseas institution decides to shut its campus without warning.

Higher Education Minister Dr MC Sudhakar said he has asked his department to review the UGC’s guidelines for foreign universities and submit a detailed report.

“In the event of sudden wind up of the campus, there is no clarity on the future of the students as foreign universities are not in the control of the state government. We will write to the UGC seeking clarity on the same,” Sudhakar said.

He noted that the state’s role is limited to facilitating these institutions and stressed that Karnataka cannot impose direct restrictions on them.

“If we impose restrictions, they will go to some other state. But in the interest of students, we need to get clarity from the UGC,” he added.

Sudhakar said international campuses could benefit Karnataka students who want global degrees but cannot afford to study abroad due to high costs.

“If the same university is offering the same degree on our own land with less expense, it will be advantageous for our students,” he said.

Responding to questions, the minister said that the State Education Policy will not apply to foreign universities.

“When we don’t have that right on Private and Deemed To Be Universities, how can we impose it on foreign universities? They have all the liberty to choose the policy and also the curriculum,” he said.

Sudhakar also shared updates from his meeting with a delegation led by UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Seema Malhotra.

He said he urged the UK government to expand Chevening Scholarship opportunities for students from Karnataka.

“We have also proposed dual degree programs at our universities in collaboration with universities from the UK,” the minister said.