Even as the falling standards of doctoral studies in universities is prominently being debated in academic circles, an expert has suggested putting in place stricter qualifying tests for bringing out the best talents to pursue research in the centres of higher learning.
Former UGC chairman Hari Gautham, who headed the committee formed by the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development to appraise the working of the University Grants Commission (UGC), said in Mysuru on Monday that he had proposed a National Research Aptitude Test for admission to Ph.D. programmes in universities for choosing the best minds for research.
If the standards of Ph.D. admissions have to improve, merit has to be the sole criteria, and the best candidates must get the chance for doctoral programmes in universities, he felt.
Prof. Gautham said if the candidates clear the proposed National Research Aptitude Test, he or she should get a chance to pursue research in any university across the country.
Unnecessary meddling
Arguing that unnecessary meddling in the affairs of universities needs to be checked, the former UGC chairman, indirectly referring to political interference, felt that somebody has to work without fear in the interest of universities.
“I am glad that the regulatory bodies of higher education are not scared of the government and of putting forth their views or taking decisions they feel are appropriate,” he said.
If the standards of Ph.D. admissions have to improve, merit has to be the sole criteria
Hari Gauthamformer UGC chairman
