15-year-old rule stings toppers, scholars at Punjabi University

Ravneet Singh

Tribune News Service

Patiala, January 17

Toppers of Punjabi University, Patiala, have been stung by a 15-year-old rule. As the varsity is facing financial crisis, it has not been able to conduct convocation for the past four years.

As a result, research scholars and students who topped in annual examination have not received their degrees. And in case, toppers wish to take their certificates without convocation, they have to shell out Rs 1,100. Whereas every other student gets his/her degree from their respective department without paying even a penny.

Dr Balwinder Singh Tiwana, Controller of Examinations, said, “The rule dates back to 15 years. I think it is not right. I have written to the Vice-Chancellor in this regard. We will take a decision soon.”

Dr BS Ghuman, Vice-Chancellor, Punjabi University, said the university may hold convocation in February or March. “Hopefully, we will hold convocation ceremony in February or March. Earlier, a date was fixed, but byelection were announced in the state.”