Universities told to plug gaps before proposing new colleges

The letter cites several instances when norms were not adhered to,including many which lacked proper infrastructure,classrooms and library facilities. Lack of laboratory facilities,inadequate journals,unsound financial condition of the the trust and lack of experience in the field of education have also been mentioned in the circular. “How can universities overlook such serious gaps? They have to be careful to ensure that students’ future is not jeopardised,” said the official. The circular,thus categorically states that there should be no “arbitrary recommendations” from universities this year and they will be answerable for any violation.

This year,the department had changed the procedures for submitting new college proposals to the state. Accordingly,universities have been given time till April 30 to complete all scrutiny and inspection work. After institutes/trusts submit their proposals,the university has to thoroughly inspect which ones are valid. Experts from respective universities have to visit the college site and check if infrastructure and facilities are in place or not.

The team will also have to check whether the institute has requisite number of teachers. If anomalies are found by the university in the proposals submitted,the party concerned will be given time to appeal. Further,time will be given to them to put in place the necessary requirements. Subsequently,a final list will have to be submitted to the state in May.

“The state had revamped the process for submitting new college proposals. We are working strictly as per the instructions prescribed by the government,” said Rajpal Hande,director,Board of College and University Development (BCUD),Mumbai University.