USTM strengthens PhD admissions with UGC MoU, gains access to NET data for enhanced transparency

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 25, 2025

In a significant move to reinforce academic quality and research standards, the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi. Under this agreement, UGC will share comprehensive UGC-NET data with USTM, enabling the university to verify the credentials of PhD applicants and ensure a transparent, merit-based admission process.

The MoU was formally signed by Prof. Manish R. Joshi, secretary of UGC, Ministry of Education, and Anju Hazarika, registrar of USTM. The data to be shared will include candidates’ roll numbers, names, photographs, signatures, parents’ names, gender, category, scores, qualifying status, and other relevant information—allowing USTM to authenticate applicants’ eligibility with accuracy.

“This collaboration marks a proud moment for us,” said USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque. “We are honoured that the UGC has joined hands with us in pursuing research excellence and academic integrity.”

Prof. G.D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM, added, “This MoU is a crucial step toward strengthening our PhD admission system. It will ensure that only the most qualified candidates gain entry, based purely on merit and transparent evaluation.”

USTM has rapidly built a reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation. Its Department of Physics was recently ranked 34th in the Nature Index 2024, surpassing several top-tier institutions nationwide. The university also secured the 48th position overall in India for research output.

Currently, USTM has 124 published patents and is actively involved in multiple government- and industry-funded research projects. These initiatives address key issues ranging from biotechnology and environmental sustainability to nanotechnology. With a special focus on solving region-specific problems in Northeast India, USTM continues to position itself as a leader in academic and research advancement geared toward sustainable development and community impact.