Fate of first batch of physical education grads hangs in balance

It also raises concern about the fate of students who are pursuing their Masters’ degree in Physical Education,which can be withdrawn from the university if they don’t submit their graduation degree.

The case pertains to de-recognition of BPEd (Integrated) course by the NCTE on October 28,2009. The Northern Regional committee of NCTE observed in its 149th meeting held on September 13-14,2009 that the faculty had not been selected by the DAV College through duly constituted selection committee as per the NCTE norms.

These anomalies were earlier pointed out in the 145th meeting held in July 2008 as well and the college was given enough time to rectify these. But not satisfied with the college response,the NRC decided to withdraw recognition to the course.

In such a situation,even before the day of the convocation,where PU Vice-Chancellor Prof S C Sobti is the chief guest,students are running from pillar to post to ascertain the status of their degree. “When we approached the Principal,we were asked to contact the Panjab University authorities. Even the PU authorities did not confirm the status and said due to holidays,the process will start next week,” said one of the BPEd students,who passed with distinction.

When Newsline contacted college Principal Dr B C Joshan,he replied nonchalantly,”It is not sure whether the students will get their degrees or not. We are yet to receive any confirmation from the PU authorities.”

The documents procured under the RTI Act 2005 by Dr Rajinder Singla revealed that NCTE finally refused recognition to the BPEd (Integrated) course at its campus.

Even if the college manages to arrange degrees for these students for the convocation,their credibility will be questionable.

Realising this fact,the Syndicate resolved in its meeting on May 18,2008 to regularise the provisional extension of affiliation for BPEd already granted to the Government College,Sector 11,Chandigarh and to ask DAV College,Sector 10 to obtain NCTE approval in similar manner.