No fee hike for IP University: Delhi Lt Governor rejects proposal and suggests alternative revenue generation

In a move to protect the educational prospects of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has rejected a proposal by the Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) to impose affiliation fees on government-affiliated institutes . GGSIPU is the largest university under the Delhi government and this move underscores the importance of maintaining access to affordable higher education.

The proposed amendment to Clause 5 of Statute 24 would have required the GGSIPU affiliated government colleges to start paying affiliation fees from the academic session 2025-26. This change threatened to increase the financial burdens on these institutions, inevitably leading to higher tuition fees for students. At present, affiliation fees are levied only for self-financing institutions, while government-run or government-funded institutions have been exempted.

LG Saxena pointed out the potential negative impact of this proposal, pointing out that it could significantly affect students from lower income families who depend on these government colleges for an affordable education. He pointed out that many deserving students from poor backgrounds get admission only on the basis of their talent and hard work. Implementing such a change in financial policy could jeopardize their future.

Saxena noted that government colleges already manage substantial financial responsibilities, including enrollment fees for provisional affiliations, which vary by course and location. Requiring them to pay additional affiliation fees would exacerbate the financial strain.

By vetoing the affiliation fee proposal, LG Saxena ensured that government institutes can continue to provide quality education without adding to the financial stress on students. This decision preserves the accessibility and affordability of higher education, especially crucial for students from low-income families, for whom government colleges are often the only viable option.

However, recognizing the financial needs of GGSIPU, the LG suggested the university to explore alternative methods of revenue generation to sustain its budget without burdening the students. This balanced approach highlights a commitment to fiscal responsibility and educational affordability.