UoP: Panel gets 157 applications for V-C post

Currently,the search committee is in the process of screening the applications received. Member of the search committee Ram Deshpande said,“We have received over 150 applications from across the country for the position. We are in the process of scrutinizing the applications to ensure there is no duplication. It is too early to say how many names will be shortlisted. We should have a more clear picture by January.”

Till 2009,the search committee did not give any advertisements for the post. The appointments were made on the basis of nominations from institutes or educationists. However,the state government amended the Maharashtra Universities Act,1994,and provided for a more transparent and an objective process for the selection of the V-C. The new procedure was followed for the first time in 2009 after which Raghunath Shevgaonkar was appointed as the V-C in February,2010.

Commenting on the increase in the number of applications,former UoP V-C Arun Nigvekar said the quality of applications received also needed to be scrutinised. “The UoP has its identity and status the world over for almost six decades now. Being the V-C of such a university means being at the helm of affairs of the world of education. It is encouraging that the number of applications has gone up but what needs to be seen is if we have got the right kind of people? We need people who are stalwarts in academics and have experience of management and governance along with being identified and honoured by the society,” said Nigvekar.

Seconding Nigvekar’s thoughts,former pro-V-C,S N Navalgundkar said,“It is encouraging to see that the number of applications have gone up and it is not surprising as the UoP is one of the most important educational institutions in the country. However,a bond for the V-C to sign is not correct. The new V-C should have a vision.”