Higher Education Debate : INDIA

If you have followed the news media of India, you would have learnt about the intense debate going on regarding the higher education funding and admissions criteria. The Government has raised the budgetary support for education in its most recent Budget. Some of the well-known institutes, such as the Indian Institutes of Management, have raised their fees considerably to avoid taking government funds and support higher costs of operation. Doctors have been striking work protesting the perceived reduction of Post-Graduate seats available to the “open” category. And, there are many debates raging……including on TV Channels.

In this context and environment, it would be worthwhile to learn what world-class American Universities are doing - surprisingly, they have extended significantly huge support to the low-income students. I urge you to read the attached article from New York Times.

“The (Yes) Low Cost of Higher Education by David Leonhardt”

How relevant is this to the ongoing debate in India - I found it very relevant. Serious matter to think through (very) carefully in a dispassionate manner befitting policy makers.

Have a good week ahead,

Cheers

Vijay Srinivasan
20 April 2008
Mumbai