Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (BAMU) has issued a clear directive to all its affiliated colleges. The university wants these institutions to make voluntary disclosures as required under the Right to Information (RTI) Act of 2005.
University Issues Formal Order for Compliance
On Monday, the university released an official order. This order instructs colleges to update the necessary information on their official websites. They must do this at least two times every year.
Sanjay Shinde, the Public Relations Officer for BAMU, explained the reasoning. "Section 4 of the RTI Act, 2005, details the suo motu disclosure of certain information for public institutions," he said. "The required information needs to be provided by colleges proactively to all stakeholders. This is done to establish a system of accountability and transparency."
What Information Must Colleges Disclose?
The voluntary disclosure covers a comprehensive set of details. Colleges need to share information about their functions and duties. They must also disclose the powers and duties of their employees.
The process followed in decision-making, supervision, and accountability must be made public. Norms for various functions within the institution are also part of the requirement.
Furthermore, colleges are expected to make governing rules, regulations, manuals, and records available. They need to share categories of documents they hold. Other vital information includes budget details, subsidies, details of recipients, and information about public information officers.
Wide Reach Across Marathwada Region
BAMU has a significant number of affiliated institutions. Over 400 colleges fall under its umbrella. These are located across four districts: Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Dharashiv, Beed, and Jalna. All these colleges must now ensure they comply with the RTI Act's voluntary disclosure mandate.
College Principals Support the Move
Suhas Morale, the principal of Swa Sawarkar Arts, Science and Commerce College in Beed, voiced strong support. He stated that every educational institute should follow the key provisions of the RTI Act.
"There should not be any reluctance from colleges in setting the regime of transparency," Morale emphasized. "A section of colleges has already made the necessary disclosure. The remaining ones need to ensure they comply with these requirements."
This directive from BAMU aims to foster greater openness. It encourages educational institutions to operate with more accountability. By making information readily available, colleges can build trust with students, parents, and the wider community.
