📜 ICT Governance & Policies in Higher Education
💡 Core Concept: ICT governance refers to the policies, frameworks, and regulations that ensure effective and secure use of technology in higher education. It is crucial for UGC NET Paper 1 (ICT in Education) and Paper 2 (Higher Education Administration).
1. National ICT Policies in Higher Education
🔴 Key Government Policies & Frameworks
Major Policies:
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Emphasizes digital infrastructure, online education, and blended learning.
- National Digital Education Architecture (NDEAR): Aims for interoperability in digital education platforms.
- UGC (Online Courses and Programmes) Regulations, 2018: Guidelines for offering online degrees.
- Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000: Legal framework for cybersecurity and digital transactions.
| Policy/Framework | Year | Key Provisions |
|---|---|---|
| NEP 2020 | 2020 | Promotes digital universities, online learning, and AI in education. |
| NDEAR | 2021 | Ensures seamless integration of digital education platforms. |
| UGC Online Regulations | 2018 | Allows HEIs to offer full-fledged online degree programs. |
| IT Act, 2000 (Amended 2008) | 2000 | Governs cybersecurity, data protection, and digital signatures. |
2. Institutional ICT Governance
🟢 University-Level ICT Policies
| Governance Area | Components | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| IT Infrastructure Policy | Network security, hardware/software standards | Managed by university IT cells |
| Data Privacy Policy | GDPR compliance, student/faculty data protection | Mandatory for NAAC accreditation |
| E-Learning Policy | LMS usage, digital content creation | Aligned with UGC guidelines |
| Cybersecurity Policy | Firewalls, anti-phishing measures | Required under IT Act, 2000 |
Exam Tip: Remember these key governance structures:
- NEP 2020: Digital university, blended learning.
- NDEAR: Interoperability framework.
- UGC Online Regulations: 20% online courses allowed in conventional degrees.
3. Emerging ICT Governance Challenges
🟣 Key Issues & Solutions
Major Challenges:
- Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology.
- Cybersecurity Threats: Data breaches, phishing.
- Plagiarism & Academic Integrity: AI-generated content.
- Faculty Training: Resistance to digital adoption.
| Challenge | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Divide | Excludes rural/underprivileged students | DIKSHA, SWAYAM Prabha (DTH channels) |
| Cybersecurity | Risk of data leaks, fraud | ISO 27001 certification for institutions |
| Plagiarism | Undermines research credibility | URKUND, Turnitin for plagiarism checks |
| Faculty Training | Low digital literacy | ATAL, PMKVY training programs |
4. Case Study: UGC NET 2023 Question
Question: Which policy framework ensures interoperability among various digital education platforms in India?
Options:
A) NEP 2020
B) NDEAR
C) IT Act, 2000
D) UGC Online Regulations
Answer: B) NDEAR (National Digital Education Architecture)
Analysis: Tests knowledge of key digital education policies. NEP 2020 is broader, while NDEAR specifically ensures platform interoperability.
🎯 Preparation Strategy
For UGC NET Aspirants:
- Memorize key policies (NEP 2020, NDEAR, IT Act).
- Understand institutional ICT governance structures.
- Learn cybersecurity and data privacy laws.
- Relate ICT governance to NAAC accreditation criteria.
Pro Tip: When answering ICT governance questions:
- Check if the question is about national policy (NEP, NDEAR) or institutional policy (university IT rules).
- For legal questions, refer to IT Act, 2000 and UGC regulations.
- For digital divide questions, mention SWAYAM Prabha, DIKSHA.
