The BPEd course will require approval from the National Council for Teacher Education before it can commenceIndia Today

First sports university in Bihar gets University Grants Commission recognition

Bihar's long-awaited step into the realm of sports education has taken shape as the state's first sports university in Rajgir receives UGC recognition.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Bihar’s first sports university gets UGC nod UGC
  • New era in Bihar’s sports development with UGC approval
  • Recognition marks milestone for Bihar’s sports education

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially recognised Bihar’s first sports university, located in Rajgir, Nalanda district. With this recognition under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956, the university can now launch academic programmes in physical education and sports sciences.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated the Bihar Sports University and the state’s first sports academy on National Sports Day, August 29, 2023. The university is part of the International Sports Complex in Rajgir, aimed at promoting sports education and training in the region.

In a statement released by the university, it was announced that academic courses would begin in the 2025–2026 academic session. These courses will include diplomas and postgraduate diplomas in sports coaching (covering two or three sports), diplomas and postgraduate diplomas in yoga, and a four-year Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) programme.

APPOINTMENT AND UGC GUIDELINES

The BPEd course will require approval from the National Council for Teacher Education before it can commence.

Retired IAS officer Shishir Sinha has been appointed as the university’s first vice chancellor by the state government.

As per UGC guidelines, the university is required to appoint an Ombudsperson within two months of starting academic activities. This appointment will ensure compliance with the UGC (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023, and provide a mechanism for addressing student grievances.

This development marks a significant step for Bihar in promoting sports and education, with the university expected to play a key role in shaping the next generation of sports professionals in the state.

(With inputs from PTI)