NET is not mandatory to become Assistant Professor, see latest UGC guidelines

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a new draft outlining important changes to be implemented in all universities established under Central, Provincial or State Acts as well as other educational institutions across the country. The draft highlights the revised rules and regulations related to appointment of assistant professors, vice-chancellors, role of NET and much more. Among the many changes, special attention has been paid to the rules governing the appointment and promotion of assistant professors, being the entry-level position in the higher education sector. Hereby, we will explain the new rules of UGC NET for Assistant Professors.

New guidelines of UGC NET for Assistant Professor

UGC has introduced new rules for appointment and promotion of assistant professors in universities and educational institutions. These changes are to make the process more transparent and in line with modern academic standards. The updates focus on improving the quality of teaching and research while opening doors for candidates from different fields. The new rules aim to create a more inclusive and straightforward approach to recruitment and career development in higher education.

ugc net recruitment process

The recruitment process of Assistant Professors is designed to ensure flexibility, transparency and selection of the best qualified candidates. It provides equal opportunities for candidates across the country, promoting diversity and merit-based recruitment.

• All India Advertisement: Recruitment for Assistant Professors will be conducted through All India Advertisement. This ensures that the process is transparent and all eligible candidates across the country get an equal opportunity to apply. The advertisement will provide clear guidelines regarding eligibility criteria, application process and other important details, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in the recruitment process.
• Selection by Committee: A duly constituted Selection Committee will monitor the recruitment process. The committee will evaluate the candidates on the basis of merit, academic achievements and relevant contribution in their respective disciplines. This ensures that only those candidates who are truly qualified and who have made significant contributions to the field are selected for the post of Assistant Professor.

Is NET necessary for Assistant Professor?

Eligibility for Assistant Professor posts depends on the candidate’s qualification in the concerned subject, including both his/her Ph.D. And NET/SET qualification.

• Ph.D. Disciplinary Considerations: If the subject of a candidate’s undergraduate or postgraduate study is different from their PhD discipline, the discipline of the PhD will determine eligibility for Assistant Professor roles.
• Considerations on Net/Sets Discipline: If the candidate’s subject of undergraduate or postgraduate studies is different from his/her NET/SET qualification, the subject in which he/she has qualified NET/SET will determine his/her eligibility for Assistant Professor roles.

Changes in UGC draft regarding PhD

The University Grants Commission (UGC) emphasizes its importance in promoting high quality research and ensuring that faculty members meet the academic standards required for teaching at a high level.

• Compulsory for higher level: PhD will be a mandatory qualification for promotion to higher academic levels such as Assistant Professor (Level 12), Associate Professor (Level 13A), and Professor (Level 14). This ensures that faculty members have advanced research expertise and contribute significantly to the academic development of the institute. The PhD qualification helps faculty members enhance their subject knowledge and research capabilities, which directly benefits students and the academic community.
• Ph.D. before 2009 Discount for. Registration: Candidates who have registered for their PhD before 11 July 2009 are exempted from the requirement of qualifying NET/SLET/SET for Assistant Professor recruitment. This exemption is based on the understanding that their PhD degrees were as per the institutional and UGC norms applicable at that time. The purpose of this rule is to recognize the prior academic achievements of those who obtained a doctoral degree before NET/SLET/SET was implemented as a mandatory requirement.

Assistant Professor Experience and Study Leave

The UGC outlines specific guidelines regarding teaching experience during PhD and M.Phil. activities, as well as provision of study leave to enhance academic qualifications.

• Experience is not counted during PhD. or M.Phil.: UGC regulations specify that the time taken to complete M.Phil. or Ph.D. Degree will not be considered as teaching or research experience. This provision ensures that the eligibility criteria for recruitment and promotion remain focused on practical contribution and active participation in academic responsibilities.
• Concurrent Teaching Experience: If a candidate pursues PhD while actively teaching without taking any leave, the period of this concurrent experience will be counted as valid teaching/research experience. This gives candidates the opportunity to gain valuable academic experience as well as acquire higher qualifications, thereby enhancing their careers.
• Provision for study leave: Institutions are permitted to grant study leave to 20% of their faculty members. This leave can be used to pursue PhD. degree or other academic activities. This provision helps faculty members improve their qualifications while continuing to contribute to the academic development and research output of the institute.

Assistant Professor Development and Promotion Process

The selection committee considers a number of notable contributions while recruiting and promoting assistant professors. Candidates must demonstrate expertise and achievements in at least four of the following nine areas, specifically in their relevant discipline:

• Innovative Teaching Contribution: Contribution in innovative teaching methods and tools is given utmost importance. This includes the development and implementation of new pedagogical approaches, interactive teaching aids or unique ways to engage students. Such contributions ensure that teaching methods are consistent with contemporary educational standards and promote an engaging learning environment.
• Research or Teaching Laboratory Development: Development of well-equipped research or teaching laboratories is another essential contribution. This includes designing laboratories that enable cutting-edge research, facilitating practical learning experiences, or creating environments that support student innovation. Such contributions demonstrate an active commitment to enhancing academic resources.
• Consultancy/Sponsored Research Funding: Serving as a principal or co-principal investigator on research projects and securing consulting or sponsored research funding is a major recognition. It demonstrates the candidate’s ability to collaborate with external entities, contribute meaningful research, and attract funding that benefits the institution’s research capabilities.
• Contribution to teaching in Indian languages: Candidates who have made significant contribution to teaching in Indian languages ​​also come forward. This involves developing curriculum, content and methods in regional languages, thus preserving and promoting the linguistic diversity of India while making education accessible to the wider population.
• Teaching-learning and research in Indian knowledge systems: Contribution to the study and dissemination of Indian knowledge systems is encouraged. This may include teaching, research and contributions to promote traditional knowledge, ancient texts and indigenous scientific methods. This is in line with the broader goals of integrating Indian knowledge into modern education.
• Student Internship/Project Supervision: Supervising student internships or projects is an important contribution. It involves guiding students through real-world applications of their studies, helping them gain practical skills and experience. By monitoring such activities, a professor can have a lasting impact on students’ careers and enhance their educational experience.
• Digital Content Creation for MOOCs: Creating high quality digital content is highly valuable for MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). Professors who develop online learning materials such as video lectures, assignments, or virtual simulations contribute to the global reach of education, facilitating learning for a diverse group of students beyond geographic boundaries.
• Community Involvement and Service: Active participation in community service, whether through educational outreach programs, volunteer work, or social initiatives, is considered an important contribution. It reflects the candidate’s commitment to social welfare and underlines the importance of education in promoting social change and inclusivity.
• Startups and Innovation: Establishing a startup, especially a startup related to education or research, is a highly regarded contribution. If the startup is registered with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and successfully raises funds through government or venture funds, it demonstrates the candidate’s entrepreneurial spirit, innovative mindset and ability to contribute to the broader economy.

Promotion of Assistant Professors phase wise

The Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) outlines clear guidelines for the career progression of assistant professors. The plan is designed to recognize and reward the contributions of faculty members over time, ensuring they have the opportunity to advance in their academic careers based on service and professional development. The table below outlines the specific requirements for each promotion level.

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