Professor JP Saini Takes Helm at Lucknow University
Lucknow University welcomed its new vice-chancellor on Wednesday. Professor JP Saini formally assumed charge of the prestigious institution.
He received the official responsibilities from the officiating vice-chancellor, Professor Manuka Khanna. Professor Khanna had been managing the role since July. The previous vice-chancellor, Professor Alok Kumar Rai, left the position after his appointment as director of the Indian Institute of Management in Calcutta.
A Day Marked by Tradition and Vision
Before stepping into his new office, Professor Saini visited the Hanuman Setu temple. This act highlighted his connection to local traditions.
Addressing the university community, he immediately set out his priorities. Upholding the glorious traditions of Lucknow University stands as his foremost commitment. He made this clear in his first official statement.
"Education, research, and innovation will form the central pillars of our university," Professor Saini declared. He plans to build the institution around these three core areas.
Focus on Students and Future-Ready Education
The new vice-chancellor outlined several key focus areas for his tenure. He emphasized a strong shift towards student-centric education.
- Developing more employment-oriented courses for students.
- Promoting interdisciplinary research across departments.
- Ensuring effective and timely implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP).
Professor Saini announced concrete steps to modernize the university. Expanding digital education infrastructure is a major goal. He also aims to strengthen collaboration between the university and various industries.
Forging new academic partnerships is another priority. The university will seek collaborations at both national and international levels to enhance its global standing.
A Call for Collective Effort
Professor Saini appealed to everyone associated with Lucknow University. He asked all faculty members, administrative staff, and students to cooperate actively.
"Together, we can lead this university towards greater academic excellence, social responsibility, and global recognition," he stated. His vision requires a united effort from the entire university community.
A Proven Leader with a Strong Track Record
Professor JP Saini brings considerable experience to his new role. He previously served as the vice-chancellor of Madan Mohan Malviya Technical University (MMTU) in Gorakhpur.
His leadership at MMTU yielded impressive results. The institution performed strongly in the recent NIRF 2025 rankings.
- It achieved the 99th rank overall.
- In engineering, it secured the 60th position.
- Among universities, it was ranked 68th.
- Its management programs were placed at 83rd.
- Notably, it ranked 23rd among all state universities.
Professor Saini is recognized as a distinguished academician and an accomplished administrator. He possesses extensive experience in several critical areas.
- Higher education policy and governance.
- Academic quality assurance systems.
- Institutional development and strategic planning.
- Research leadership and innovation.
His appointment marks a new chapter for Lucknow University. The community now looks forward to seeing his plans translate into action on campus.
