Prayagraj: In a move expected to improve access to higher education, particularly in underserved regions, 29 new govt degree colleges will start functioning across state from the upcoming academic session beginning July 1.Officials said 20 of the proposed institutions are being established under the Prime Minister Jan Vikas Programme (PMJVK).The directorate of higher education has already submitted a proposal to state govt seeking approval for the creation of teaching and non-teaching posts required for smooth functioning of these colleges.Initially, authorities were considering multiple operational models for the institutions, including affiliation with state universities and public-private partnership arrangements. However, with proposals now submitted for staff recruitment, it has become clear that all 20 PMJVK colleges will function as full-fledged govt degree colleges.Among the colleges planned under the scheme are two institutions in Pratapgarh — Govt Degree College at Gabi Mahuawan and another at Sandwa Chandika.In addition, the state is also preparing to start academic activities in nine other govt degree colleges located across different districts. Officials noted that these institutions are likely to become operational from July without any administrative hurdles, as staffing approvals for them were already completed earlier.Last year, academic sessions could commence in only 46 out of 69 newly constructed govt colleges. Several institutions faced delays after universities declined to manage colleges proposed under the affiliated model. Construction-related issues also affected the launch of colleges in Rath of Hamirpur and Jamalpur in Mirzapur. Officials now say construction work at both campuses is nearing completion and classes are expected to begin in the coming session.Director of higher education, BL Sharma, confirmed that proposals for staff appointments in the PMJVK colleges were already sent to govt. According to officials, Uttar Pradesh currently has 216 govt degree colleges.Assistant director of higher education, SK Pandey, said the expansion is part of the state’s broader strategy to raise the gross enrolment ratio in higher education from around 27% to 50% by 2035.
