An ambitious push for values, ethics in higher education – UGC’s Mulya Pravah 2.0 Guidelines for Inculcating Human Values and Professional Ethics in Higher Education Institutions | 9 January 2024 | UPSC Daily Editorial Analysis

What's the article about?

• This article analyzes the University Grants Commission's (UGC) revised guideline, Mulya Pravah 2.0, which aims to promote human values and professional ethics in higher education institutions (HEIs).

Relevance:

• GS2: Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Context:

• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued guidelines called Mulya Pravah 2.0, which aims to inculcate human values and professional ethics in higher education institutions.
• The guideline seeks to build value-based institutions by orienting individuals and institutions towards developing a deep respect for fundamental duties and constitutional values and bonding with the country. 
• This article analyzes the guideline's key points, highlighting its merits and potential shortcomings.

Analysis:

• Triggering the Need: Rampant Unethical Practices: The impetus for Mulya Pravah 2.0 stems from alarming surveys revealing widespread unethical practices in various organizations, including:
  • Favoritism in hiring, training, and promotion.
  • Sexual harassment and gender discrimination.
  • Inconsistent disciplinary practices and lack of confidentiality.
  • Pay discrepancies based on gender and overlooking performance in appraisals.
  • Corruption and conflicts of interest.
  • While not exclusive to HEIs, these vices likely permeate them as well. The UGC's acknowledgement of this reality is commendable.
• Positives of Mulya Pravah 2.0: Emphasis on Values and Culture:
  • Institutional integrity: Adherence to statutory provisions and ethical conduct.
  • Inclusivity and respect: Creating a conducive environment for all stakeholders.
  • Sustainability and global citizenship: Fostering responsible and environmentally conscious practices.
  • Teacher role models: Encouraging ethical behavior and setting high standards for students.
  • These values are crucial for building a vibrant and ethical academic ecosystem.
• Concerns and Potential Pitfalls:
  • Confidentiality vs. Transparency:
    • The guideline's emphasis on confidentiality seems to contradict the right to information's role in ensuring accountability. HEIs should, in fact, be encouraged to proactively disclose critical information and remain transparent. Public access to agendas, minutes, annual reports, and audited accounts can deter malpractices and rebuild public trust.
  • Unions and Stakeholder Engagement:
    • While Mulya Pravah 2.0 expects unions to support the administration, it should not stifle their role in raising concerns on behalf of their members. Associations and unions are vital pressure groups that protect stakeholder rights. HEIs should foster a culture of collegiality and engage with stakeholders in decision-making.
  • Defining “Dignified” Dissent:
    • The guideline's call for “dignified” dissent by unions and students lacks clarity. This ambiguous term could be misused to silence or undermine criticism. Defining “dignified” dissent is crucial to protect the right to dissent without fear of reprisal.
  • While Mulya Pravah 2.0's intent is noble, its effectiveness hinges on genuine efforts to implement its provisions. Mere guidelines are insufficient to curb corruption and ethical violations. The UGC must demonstrate:
    • Zero tolerance: Swift and decisive action against even minor instances of malpractice in admissions, examinations, hiring, and all aspects of university administration.
    • Transparency and accountability: Open decision-making processes guided by institutional and public good, not personal biases.
    • Punitive measures: Elimination of discriminatory privileges and swift punishment for corrupt officials.

Way Forward:

• Mulya Pravah 2.0 is a positive step towards instilling ethical values in HEIs. However, its effectiveness depends on genuine implementation, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
• Addressing concerns regarding confidentiality and “dignified” dissent will further strengthen the initiative. Ultimately, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within HEIs requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders, not just guidelines.