Thiruvananthapuram: The universities in Kerala have discontinued MPhil courses following the latest instructions from the University Grants Commission (UGC). The decision comes in the light of the existing Supreme Court order that the universities are bound to follow the UGC guidelines. However, those who enrolled for the MPhil courses, before the guidelines were issued by the UGC, are allowed to complete the course.
The MPhil graduates didn’t have any professional advantage even when the course had UGC’s recognition. Meanwhile, one could complete PhD in just two years and would be added as an additional score during the appointment to teaching posts. In this scenario, many education experts too think that discontinuing MPhil courses is the right move.
Kerala mostly abides by the instructions and guidelines that are strictly endorsed by the UGC and other national agencies to ensure the standard of education. However, the state doesn’t hesitate to voice its disagreement if it feels that the move is a politically motivated one.
