University in Kashmir Grants 40% Tuition Fee Waiver to Enrolled Students
University in Kashmir Grants 40% Tuition Fee Waiver to Enrolled Students
Ganderbal, Dec 20: In a noteworthy step towards promoting inclusive education and supporting economically challenged students, the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) has introduced the Student Aid Fund (SAF), providing varying tuition fee waivers for students in different categories.
The initiative aims to extend financial aid and tuition fee exemptions to deserving students facing economic challenges, showcasing the university’s dedication to inclusive learning.
Under this scheme, 40% of students in each semester stand to benefit from variable tuition fee waivers, with potential relief reaching up to 100%.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. A Ravinder Nath, in a statement to GNS, highlighted the significance of SAF, stating, “The SAF reflects the Central University of Kashmir’s commitment to offering fair educational opportunities and assisting students in overcoming financial barriers.”
The policy aligns with the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, prioritizing inclusiveness and supporting students from disadvantaged groups, underprivileged backgrounds, and economically challenged sections, while also recognizing meritorious students.
The SAF, designed as a dedicated fund, seeks to support students, particularly those from Low-Income Groups. Funding sources include student contributions, university allocations, alumni donations, and income generated through student-centric activities under the Dean Students Welfare.
Structured into three tiers of tuition fee exemptions per semester, SAF’s Category-I (need-based) provides a 100% tuition fee waiver for 10% of students, including orphans, those from broken families, first-generation learners, differently-abled individuals, ex-servicemen, and sports persons and medallists of National and International Sports Competitions and Events.
Category-II (need and merit-based) offers a 50% tuition fee waiver for 20% of students, specifically those with parents facing critical illnesses and an annual income not exceeding Rs. 3,00,000/- per annum.
Category-III (merit-based) encompasses the top 10% of meritorious students from entrance tests or end-semester examinations in each semester. To qualify for financial assistance, students must comply with specific conditions, including application submission, income certification, and a declaration of not receiving assistance from other schemes.
The move aims to boost the enrollment of unrepresented and under-represented students in various university programs, a historic decision appreciated by stakeholders, establishing it as one of CUKashmir’s best practices in higher education.
