In a momentous move, the Monsoon session of the State assembly has given its seal of approval to grant the coveted status of private universities to two esteemed institutions in the Pune area. This development has augmented the tally of private universities in Pune to a notable 17. The newly anointed universities that now join the ranks of higher education prominence are none other than the illustrious Deccan Education Society (DES) Pune University and the renowned MIT Vishwaprayag University.
Across the state, there has been an emerging inclination among educational institutions to establish self-financing universities. Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, in particular, have witnessed a surge in the number of private universities over the past few years. Embracing this trend, the state government has fervently encouraged colleges to pursue an autonomous policy in their academic pursuits.
According to the latest data from the University Grants Commission (UGC), the state is currently home to more than 22 private universities, out of which 12 have firmly rooted themselves in the educational landscape of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad areas. The academic year 2023-24 has seen the inclusion of JSPM University, Dr. P. A. Inamdar University, and Pimpri-Chinchwad University in the roster of these esteemed institutions. Additionally, several other educational establishments in Pune are diligently working towards establishing their private universities.
Insights shared by Prof. Hrishikesh Khatri, a senior education expert, shed light on the future prospects of the educational landscape. Taking into account all three types of universities in Pune – government-funded, self-financed, and private, it is anticipated that the total count of universities may reach approximately 25. Looking ahead, metro cities like Mumbai, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are also expected to experience a rise in the number of private universities, further enriching the educational tapestry of Maharashtra.
In conclusion, this surge in private universities signifies a transformative phase in the realm of higher education, as Pune emerges as a hub of learning, innovation, and academic excellence.