‘45% faculty shortage in PU, academic performance in university has been hit hard’

First and foremost, it’s essential to clarify that we haven’t banned politicians’ entry; we have merely restricted it. Given the politically charged atmosphere, we aim to prevent any potential law and order disturbances within the campus. The Student Centre is already a highly crowded area, and there had been incidents of disturbances in the presence of politicians, including an MLA, recently. We’ve made this decision to protect not only our students but also to ensure the integrity of politicians. We are working closely with the UT Police to ensure smooth students’ council elections.

PU is facing a staff shortage problem. How does this affect the university?

Indeed, Panjab University is grappling with a substantial 45% faculty shortage. Some departments, such as foreign languages, have only a single faculty member, and we’re managing these departments by hiring temporary faculty. It’s undeniable that these shortages have an adverse impact on academic performance. Once we fill these faculty positions, we will be better equipped to enhance student performance. We’ve already advertised some posts to address this issue.

Were there allegations of corruption against your predecessor, Prof Raj Kumar, and is there any investigation into these allegations?

I haven’t come across any files or documents related to allegations against Prof Raj Kumar since I assumed the role of V-C. I don’t have any written evidence regarding this matter.

What are your plans for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP)-2023 in PU and its affiliated colleges?

Within Panjab University, we’ve already implemented NEP in all our departments, although the UGC has given us a four-year timeframe for full implementation. Regarding our affiliated colleges, we’re conducting special programmes for faculty members to align them with NEP guidelines.

Are there any new courses planned that differ from traditional education?

NEP-2023 encourages courses that equip students to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world. We have developed a portfolio of around 100 short-term courses that will be introduced within a year. These courses include MSc in data science, specific courses in mechanical engineering like robotics, 3D printing, and manufacturing. We will also offer minor degrees in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, machine learning, and renewable energy. Our aim is to enhance admissions and students’ rankings through these courses, offering both theoretical and practical components.

Q: Are there plans to make departments self-sustainable?

Some of our departments are partially self-sustainable, primarily through a slightly higher fee structure. These departments generate their resources to sustain themselves.

The Bar council is threatening to disaffiliate the University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS). Could you provide an update on this case, and is there an attempt to settle it out of court?

The issue surrounding the UILS’s affiliation or disaffiliation is unrelated to the matter in hand. It revolves around a dispute among faculty members regarding the director’s position. To the best of my knowledge, the matter is in the courts, with hearings concluded, and a decision pending. Since it’s a legal matter, we cannot intervene outside of the legal proceedings.