Meghalaya Cabinet Votes to Repeal International Open University Act

During a recent cabinet meeting, the Meghalaya government decided to annul the International Open University Act, a law that had permitted foreign‑run open‑university programmes to operate in the state. The decision was taken by a majority of ministers after a review of the act's impact on local education standards and regulatory oversight.
The repeal aims to bring all higher‑education institutions under the existing state and central regulatory frameworks, ensuring uniform quality control and preventing unverified foreign entities from offering degrees without proper accreditation.
Officials indicated that the move will not affect students currently enrolled in programmes launched under the act; they will be allowed to complete their courses or transfer to recognized institutions. The cabinet will now draft the necessary legislative amendment to formalise the repeal.
Education experts have welcomed the step, noting that it aligns Meghalaya's policies with national guidelines on foreign educational collaborations. The state government is expected to issue detailed guidelines in the coming weeks.