Osmania University’s (OU) recent announcement making the UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) the basis of admission to PhD programme has drawn opposition, particularly from among student bodies and aspiring scholars. The decision comes amidst growing concerns over the integrity of the UGC NET, following a paper leak that has forced some universities — including the University of Hyderabad and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi — to reconsider similar decisions. Nelli Satya, PhD scholar in political science, said the step had the potential of excluding a large number of students, especially those from marginalised communities and first-generation scholars.
" I understand the challenges and barriers that many students face in pursuing higher education. Relying solely on UGC NET scores will restrict opportunities and perpetuate inequality. We urge OU to reconsider this decision and conduct its own PhD Category 2 entrance test.
" The Hyderabad Central University and the JNU institutions have opted to conduct their PhD Category 2 entrance tests, a move that has been widely praised as ensuring a more secure and fair admission process, said another student, Bala V. Several student bodies have demanded the immediate release of the PhD Category 2 notification, which would allow admissions to proceed without the mandatory requirement of clearing the UGC NET or holding a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Bala further elaborated on the broader implications of the decisio.