GNDU’s VC probables out on social media

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, March 24

The appointment of the Vice-Chancellor of the GNDU has been generating a lot of buzz, as the names of probables in the race for the coveted position are already being circled around through social media. The names include academicians Prithipal Singh Soni and Gurpal Singh Pannu along with Dr Sucha Singh, UGC Secretary Dr Gurnam Singh and Dr Jaspal Singh.

After the resignations of Vice-Chancellors of Guru Nanak Dev and Punjabi Universities following the change of government in the State, the talk amongst academic circles ensued that political interference affects the final outcome of appointments. The issued made headlines after several academicians claimed that political interference and not merit decides who takes over as VC in universities across the state.

Former VC SP Singh said that under the UGC’s directions, a five-member search committee is constituted to decide upon the candidates’ suitability as a VC. “Despite the directions, the rules were overlooked several times and appointments are made solely on the basis of political backing. The guidelines state that a person should have at least 10 years of teaching experience and should fall in the age bracket of 65-75 years to be suitable for the position.”

He also dismissed the names being circled around as rumours and said that these political rumours are creating a state of confusion.