Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN)
Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN)
§ GIAN is a flagship initiative by theMinistry of Education (MoE), Government of India designed to foster collaboration and enhance the quality of education and research in Indian academic institutions.
§ This initiative aims to bring in distinguished scholars worldwide to teach at Indian universities.
§ The National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), after evaluating the scheme, recommended its continuation.
§ Launched in 2015, the primary objective of the GIAN scheme is to provide an opportunity for students and faculty to interact with the best academic and industry experts from all over the world.
§ The eligibility criteria for joining the GIAN scheme are as follows:
o Faculty members of Indian institutions of higher education.
o Scientists and entrepreneurs from abroad.
§ The courses offered under the GIAN scheme should be relevant to the Indian context.
o The courses should be designed to provide exposure to the latest developments in the field.
o The courses should be designed to provide hands-on training to the participants.
Objectives of GIAN
· To tap into the global talent pool of scientists and entrepreneurs to improve India's academic and research capacity.
· To augment the country's existing academic resources and accelerate the pace of quality reform in higher education.
· To foster collaborative research relationships between Indian and international institutions.
· To develop high-quality course material in niche areas, with both video and print formats.
Key features
• Course delivery: GIAN organizes short-term courses, which can be delivered in-person or online, typically lasting one to two weeks.
• Participants: Courses are open to registered students and faculty of the participating institutes, as well as external applicants.
• Institutions covered: The program initially covered IITs, IIMs, Central Universities, IISc Bangalore, IISERs, NITs, and IIITs, and now includes many state universities.
• Implementation: IIT Hyderabad currently serves as the National Coordinating Institute for GIAN.
Challenges & Observations
1. Funding Constraints: While guidelines exist for honorarium and contingency, virtual courses have lower foreign travel costs, but this may limit in-person engagement.
2. Logistical Complexity: Running hybrid (in-person + virtual) courses and ensuring good interaction may be challenging for host institutions.
3. Sustainability of Engagement: Short-term courses are good for exposure, but long-term research partnerships need more sustainability.
4. Quality Assurance: With a high number of courses, maintaining consistently high quality and relevance may require strong monitoring and follow-up.
5. Awareness and Participation: Smaller or remote colleges may not be fully tapped into the GIAN program; more awareness and capacity building may be needed.
Comments
Post a Comment