Commercialization of Education: A Threat to Quality Learning

Education has long been regarded as the cornerstone of progress, fostering both personal growth and societal advancement.

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However, the increasing privatization of education has led to a shift in focus away from public institutions, resulting in unchecked expansion and a steady decline in academic standards.

The Role of Privatization in Declining Educational Standards

One of the primary reasons for the decline is the lack of stringent oversight over private educational institutions. While regulations exist, enforcement remains inadequate, allowing many institutions to operate without accountability.

A significant indicator of this deterioration is the commercialization of the Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) degree, which was once a mark of distinction and intellectual contribution. Previously, earning a Ph.D. was a rigorous process that required original research and meaningful academic engagement. However, as the demand for Ph.D. holders grew particularly due to University Grants Commission (UGC) requirements for teaching jobs, many private universities began prioritizing quantity over quality.

Initially, private institutions hired retired government professors to meet these requirements. However, as the supply of qualified Ph.D. holders diminished, many institutions resorted to launching their own Ph.D. programs, often with relaxed admission criteria. Some institutions admitted candidates with less than 60% marks (55% for SC/ST students) and significantly decreased the Ph.D. seats, diluting the credibility of the degree.