Unpacking the Contradiction
On the surface, the numbers from the latest All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) paint a confusing picture. Total student enrolment reached a record 4.5 crore in 2023-24, and the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) — the percentage of young adults in higher
education — climbed to 30%. This continues an upward trend, bringing India closer to its goal of a 50% GER by 2035. Yet, this growth is happening alongside a significant consolidation. Reports from regulatory bodies like the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) confirm the closure of dozens of institutions each year, with the headline's '342 closures' reflecting a cumulative trend of weeding out underperforming colleges.
A Focus on Quality, Not Just Quantity
So, why are colleges closing if demand for education is rising? The answer lies in a decisive shift from quantity to quality. For years, India saw a boom in the creation of higher education institutions, particularly private engineering colleges. However, many of these struggled with low student admissions, a shortage of qualified faculty, and poor infrastructure. Regulatory bodies have become stricter, approving the 'progressive closure' of colleges that fail to meet standards. This process allows existing students to complete their degrees while preventing new admissions, effectively phasing out institutions that don't provide quality education or deliver on job prospects.
The Great Course Correction
The other side of the story is the changing preference of students themselves. The once-unshakeable dominance of traditional engineering degrees is facing a challenge. While still a major field, demand for seats in less-reputed engineering colleges has waned, contributing to their non-viability. Today's students, more attuned to the demands of the job market, are increasingly looking beyond conventional choices. This doesn't mean STEM is unpopular; in fact, total STEM enrolment is at a high of 10.2 million. The shift is towards specialised, future-ready fields. Courses in Artificial Intelligence, data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity are seeing a surge in interest. Students are seeking skills that offer a better return on investment and direct pathways to employment, moving away from generic degrees that no longer guarantee a job.
Where Are the Students Going?
If students aren't enrolling in these closing colleges, where is the growth happening? The enrolment boom is being absorbed by larger, more reputable universities and a growing number of online degree programs. The data shows that while private colleges make up the majority of institutions, government universities still account for over 68% of student enrolment, highlighting a preference for established and affordable public education. Furthermore, the rise of UGC-approved online degrees in fields like management and technology offers a flexible and accessible alternative for both fresh students and working professionals looking to upskill. This trend indicates a consolidation of students into institutions and platforms perceived to offer better quality and value.
