Context: 

Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal are three out of 14 states and union territories that  have not yet signed a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Education Ministry. 

More on News:

• This MoU is a requirement for accessing funds amounting to nearly ₹13,000 crore over the next three years under the central government’s flagship scheme for state-run higher education, known as the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).

About PM-USHA:

• It’s a Centrally Sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Education to enhance the quality of higher education in State Universities.
• Aims: To improve curriculum, teacher training, infrastructure, accreditation, and employability.
  • Focus on ensuring equity, access, and inclusion in higher education.
• Fund allocation: ₹12,926.10 crore for 2023-24 to 2025-26.

MoU Signing and Implementation:

• MoU:
  • MoU signifies states’ willingness to participate in the PM-USHA scheme.
  • The MoU aids in better execution of the scheme’s goals.
  • 22 States/UTs have already signed the MoUs.
• Concerns about NEP Implementation and Funding:
  • The MoU makes it obligatory for states to implement various reforms outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP).
  • These reforms include establishing an academic credit bank, allowing entry and exit flexibility, and adopting the Samarth e-governance platform.
• Issues Raised by State Governments:
  • The requirement to bear 40% of the PM-USHA expenses by states has raised concerns.
  • States emphasize the need for more financial support from the central government to effectively implement NEP reforms.
  • The MoU does not address the allocation of funds for the changes outlined in the NEP.

News Source: The Hindu