BEYOND DEGREES Hardcover

"Beyond Degrees" by Ira Pande is a collection of insightful essays that critically examine the state of higher education in India. The book delves into the alarming decline in the quality of education and research in Indian universities despite their vital role in fueling the nation's economic boom. It raises crucial questions about the need for professional management in universities, the relevance of caste-based reservations, the balance between institutional autonomy and accountability, the potential impact of foreign university partnerships, and how to de-politicize campuses and prevent the brain drain of talented individuals. Through diverse perspectives from eminent educationists and thinkers, the book aims to spark a much-needed public debate on reforming India's higher learning institutions to meet the challenges of a globalized world while upholding their traditional values.