80% Central Universities Lack Professors of Practice

Three years after the University Grants Commission (UGC) introduced guidelines for Professors of Practice (PoP), a significant gap remains. Approximately 80% of central universities have yet to appoint any PoPs. In contrast, private universities have shown greater adoption of the initiative.

Data presented to Parliament reveals that as of January 5, 2026, only 349 higher education institutions nationwide have appointed PoPs. A total of 1,841 PoPs have been engaged across these institutions.

Central Universities Lag in Professor of Practice Appointments

Central universities have been particularly slow to implement the PoP scheme. The Ministry of Education confirmed that only 11 central universities have appointed a mere 15 Professors of Practice. This represents a stark contrast to other university types.

Private Universities Lead Adoption

Private universities are the leading adopters of the Professor of Practice initiative. A total of 181 private universities have engaged 715 PoPs. Deemed-to-be universities have also seen considerable engagement, with 63 institutions appointing 699 PoPs.

State universities have appointed 212 PoPs across 57 institutions. Colleges have engaged 200 PoPs from 37 institutions.

Professor of Practice Guidelines

The UGC introduced guidelines for Professors of Practice on September 30, 2022. The aim is to connect industry expertise with academic settings. The role is a temporary position, separate from sanctioned faculty posts.

Candidates must possess at least 15 years of professional experience, ideally at a senior level. The maximum tenure for a Professor of Practice at an institution is three years . This can be extended by one year in exceptional circumstances, with a total service not exceeding four years .

Tamil Nadu Leads States in PoP Engagement

Tamil Nadu has the highest number of institutions engaging Professors of Practice. A total of 37 higher education institutions in the state have appointed 395 PoPs. Maharashtra follows, with 36 institutions engaging 193 PoPs.

Gujarat has the largest number of registered institutions at 38 , but has only appointed 179 PoPs to date.

PoP Engagement Data Overview

The following table summarizes PoP engagement by institution type as of January 5, 2026:

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) permits institutions to appoint Professors of Practice to up to 20% of their faculty positions.