ASSESSING THE QUALITY OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN MAHARASHTRA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

The quality of higher education is a crucial factor influencing the academic success of students, institutional reputation, and national development. In Maharashtra, both public and private universities contribute significantly to the higher education system, yet they exhibit noticeable differences in their educational quality. This study aims to assess and compare the quality of education in selected public and private universities in Maharashtra, with a focus on teaching effectiveness, infrastructure, student satisfaction, and academic outcomes. Data was collected through a structured 25-item questionnaire distributed to students, faculty, and administrators at four universities (two public and two private) across the state. The survey covered key factors such as faculty qualifications, teaching methodologies, campus facilities, extracurricular activities, and support services. Statistical analysis, including mean scores, percentile distributions, and t-tests, was conducted to evaluate the data and compare the responses between public and private institutions. The results show that private universities generally outperform public universities in terms of infrastructure, teaching quality, and student satisfaction. Private universities also demonstrate higher levels of engagement and innovation in their educational practices. In contrast, public universities, while offering more affordable education, face challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, outdated curricula, and limited resources. The study suggests that improving the quality of public universities requires focused efforts to modernize infrastructure, improve faculty development, and introduce more student-centered teaching methods. Additionally, the findings highlight the need for policy changes to bridge the gap in educational quality between public and private institutions. The study concludes by offering recommendations for both types of universities to enhance their educational offerings and meet the evolving demands of the job market and society.