NMIMS moves Bombay HC over UGC ban on e-courses

MUMBAI: Days after the University Grants Commission (UGC) debarred admissions to NMIMS University's distance and open learning courses for three intakes, the administration has challenged the order in the Bombay High Court.
In an email sent to all enrolled students on Friday about the UGC's April 17 notice, the team of NMIMS Global Access - School for Continuing Education mentioned that they have moved the court and that the matter is sub judice.
It further states that the institute is making all efforts to resolve the matter as early as possible in the interest of students. Some students, however, are keen on knowing if their fee, which runs into over a lakh rupees, will be refunded. Some others are willing to wait. A student enrolled in the online MBA programme in January 2023 - one of the affected intakes - said he has paid Rs 1.35 lakh and is now in the dark about the future of the programme. "If the course is not recognised by the UGC, then we would rather cancel our admissions and seek a refund," he said.
When TOI reached out to the institute, it refused to comment on the issue stating that the matter is currently before the high court. The administration did not respond to the queries on fees charged by them for different courses offered in distance and online mode and the number of affected students.
A source, however, claimed that of the three intakes, July 2023 and January 2024 admissions are yet to commence and therefore are not affected by the order. "Only the January 2023 batch of about 20,000 candidates is affected and the university is doing its best to resolve the matter," he said.
On Thursday, MNVS activist Santosh Gangurde, met the university vice-chancellor and sought refund of fees for all students.