Thorat's insights are timely, especially as the country aims to achieve a Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of 50% by 2035 under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
India’s higher education system has changed a lot in recent decades. However, former UGC Chairman Prof Sukhadeo Thorat emphasizes the urgent need for more public investment. On July 30, 2026, he discussed challenges in the sector, such as rising enrollment rates, ongoing inequities, and faculty shortages. This call for action is vital for creating a more inclusive and effective educational landscape in India.
Thorat’s insights are timely. The country aims for a Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of 50% by 2035 under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Currently, the GER is nearly 30%, a big jump from less than 1% shortly after Independence. Despite this progress, access to higher education is still uneven, especially for students from low-income households and marginalized communities. The World Bank notes that while enrollment has risen, the quality of education and student retention remain serious challenges.
Challenges in Access and Quality of Higher Education
India’s higher education system shows stark disparities. Students from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) are still underrepresented in colleges. High fees at private institutions create barriers for economically weaker sections, limiting their access to quality education. This issue worsens due to the digital divide, affecting rural students who often lack reliable internet and devices for online learning. A NASSCOM report highlights that this divide has led to significant gaps in educational outcomes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when many institutions moved online.
Moreover, education quality is under scrutiny. Many graduates do not meet industry expectations because of skill mismatches between academic training and job market needs. This lack of alignment hurts employability, especially in fields like engineering and management, where many students are enrolled in private institutions. A PwC report states that only 20% of engineering graduates are employable, showing a critical need for curriculum reforms and better industry-academia collaboration.
To tackle these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Increased public funding is essential for improving infrastructure, boosting faculty strength, and expanding digital access. According to Career Ahead’s analysis, current government spending on higher education is far below recommended levels. A substantial increase is necessary to meet the needs of a diverse student population. The Government of India recognizes this need but has not yet allocated enough resources for effective reforms.
The National Education Policy 2020 outlines measures to improve access, but successful implementation depends on adequate funding and political will.
Additionally, improving education quality must go hand-in-hand with efforts to enhance access. Initiatives like scholarships, interest-free loans, and subsidized hostels can help disadvantaged students. Thorat advocates for policies that prioritize inclusivity and equity, ensuring that higher education serves as a true tool for social mobility. The National Education Policy 2020 outlines measures to improve access, but successful implementation depends on adequate funding and political will.
To illustrate the potential impact of increased public investment, consider the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). These top institutions set a standard for quality education and research, largely due to strong public funding. Expanding such models to other institutions can raise the overall standard of higher education in India. Their success shows that with the right investment, it is possible to create a world-class educational environment that fosters innovation and research.
Implications for Faculty and Employment
Another critical issue raised by Thorat is the shortage of qualified faculty in public institutions. Many colleges and universities have significant vacancies, leading to poor faculty-student ratios that hurt teaching quality. This shortage undermines the educational experience and limits academic mentoring for students. The Government of India has acknowledged the need for faculty recruitment and retention strategies, but progress has been slow.
Career Ahead research shows that addressing faculty shortages requires strategic investment in teacher training and recruitment. By offering competitive salaries and professional development opportunities, the government can attract more qualified individuals to teaching. Additionally, integrating technology in teaching can help ease some burdens on faculty, allowing them to focus on mentorship and research.
The effects of faculty shortages extend beyond the classroom. A well-staffed faculty is crucial for fostering innovation and research, key components of a thriving higher education ecosystem. As India aims to be a global leader in education and research, addressing faculty shortages must be a priority. Improving graduate employability also depends on aligning educational outcomes with industry needs. Collaboration between educational institutions and industry can help develop relevant curricula and training programs. Such partnerships can create pathways for internships and job placements, enhancing overall graduate employability.
A well-staffed faculty is crucial for fostering innovation and research, key components of a thriving higher education ecosystem.
The potential for increased public investment to transform India’s higher education landscape is significant. By prioritizing funding and policy reforms, the government can create an environment where higher education is accessible, equitable, and aligned with labor market needs. As Prof Thorat emphasizes, the next phase of transformation must ensure that higher education becomes a genuine tool for social mobility and national development. This urgent call for action raises important questions about the future of higher education in India. Will the government respond to the pressing need for increased public investment? As India expands its higher education system, the focus must remain on equity, quality, and employability to ensure that all students benefit from the opportunities higher education provides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of increased public investment in higher education?
Increased public investment can lead to better infrastructure, stronger faculty, and greater access for disadvantaged students. It can also help align educational outcomes with labor market needs, improving employability rates for graduates.
How can education policy researchers advocate for more funding?
Education policy researchers can advocate for more funding by presenting data that highlights disparities in access and quality. Collaborating with stakeholders and providing evidence-based recommendations can influence policy decisions.
What should higher education administrators do to address faculty shortages?
Administrators should improve recruitment strategies and offer competitive salaries to attract qualified faculty. Investing in professional development and creating a supportive academic environment can help retain existing faculty members.
Education & University Insights
Education & University Insights
