In 17 years,only 2 UoP V-Cs completed 5-year tenure

Before the 1994 Act,the tenure for a V-C was three years. Dr M R Jayakar was the first V-C who held the post from 1948 to 1956,the longest term of eight years. However,after Jayakar,hardly anyone was re-appointed.

Former UoP V-C Arun Nigavekar,who was the chairperson and vice-chairperson of the University Grants Commission (UGC) said,“Over the past few appointments,none of the VCs is completing the term. I held the post for about 30 months and then I was invited by the Government of India to take charge of UGC chairperson. The selection committee now needs to ensure that the person they choose has a commitment towards the betterment of the university. It is important that an academician is selected for the post.”

Echoing Nigavekar’s thoughts,former acting VC,Arun Adsul said,“Every V-C had a different reason for leaving the post and none of them can be blamed. However,the selection committee should take into account that the person who is seleted has the dedication to stick to the post and work towards the betterment of students and the university. The person also should be well-versed with the intricacies of the working of the university.”

Even if most agree that there is no way of ensuring that the post holders complete their tenure,many feel that the person should be appointed from within the system of the state university.

Senior senate member Nandkumar Nikam said,“In the last six years,we have had six VCs. This has been hampering the working of the university. The committee needs to make sure that the person is from the system and is well-versed with the education system here. He should not be from outside the disciplines of the university.”