Gujarat University Achieves UGC Category II Graded Autonomy

Gujarat University has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first state university in Gujarat to receive UGC Category II graded autonomy. This status allows the university to initiate new academic programs and enhance its administrative capabilities without prior approval from the UGC. The recognition is expected to bolster the university's academic excellence and contribute to the vision of a developed Gujarat and India by 2047. Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja praised this achievement, highlighting its importance in the state's higher education landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 5, 2026, 18:45 IST

Gujarat University Receives Prestigious UGC Status

Gujarat University has made history by becoming the first and only state university in Gujarat to be awarded UGC Category II graded autonomy. This recognition was granted by the University Grants Commission (UGC) under the 'UGC (Classification of Universities for Graded Autonomy) Regulations, 2018'. On July 29, 2026, the UGC conferred this status, enabling the university to exercise greater academic and administrative autonomy.

According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) of Gujarat, with the UGC Category II graded autonomy, Gujarat University can now initiate new academic programs, departments, schools, and specialized centers within its existing academic framework without prior UGC approval. Additionally, the university will be able to launch industry-oriented and employment-focused diploma and certificate courses in accordance with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).

Expanded Opportunities for Faculty and Students

Furthermore, the university will have the authority to appoint up to 20% of its approved faculty positions with qualified foreign faculty members on a contractual basis. It will also be allowed to admit international students up to 20% of the sanctioned student intake based on merit. The university aims to enhance access to its academic programs through Open and Distance Learning (ODL).

Celebrating a Milestone in Education

Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja congratulated the Gujarat University community, faculty, and students on this remarkable achievement. Expressing his joy, he noted that under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat's education sector is reaching new heights. He emphasized that this recognition marks a golden chapter in the history of higher education in the state and will serve as a strong foundation for realizing the vision of 'Developed Gujarat' and 'Developed India @2047'. He attributed this significant accomplishment to the university's academic excellence, high-quality research, and effective implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020).