Whither State Universities?

With the United Progressive Alliance government moving speedily towards establishing 14 central universities in the states that do not have any, the manner and undue haste with which vice chancellors to these institutions have been appointed has come in for some debate in academic circles. Both the National Knowledge Commission and the Yashpal Committee, which have been emphasising the need for reforms in such appointments have also expressed their displeasure. It is obvious that these appointments were made with an eye on the electoral benefit that would accrue as a result of the “historic” and “unprecedented” initiative in the realm of higher education.

One hopes that these newly appointed vice chancellors will engage in the process of identifying and recruiting the best talent available, both of faculty and students.