Lucknow University has a new leader at its helm. Prof Jai Prakash Saini was officially appointed as the Vice-Chancellor on Saturday by Uttar Pradesh Governor and Chancellor Anandiben Patel. The post had been vacant for the past five months.
A Focus on Quality and Rankings
In his first remarks after the appointment, Prof Saini outlined his immediate priority. He stated that his core focus will be on ensuring quality in academics and research to improve the university's standing. He revealed that the Chancellor, Anandiben Patel, emphasized the importance of rankings and quality education, and he is committed to realizing her vision for the historic institution.
"I try to focus on quality in whatever work I do, whether it is research or academics," Prof Saini told the media. He expressed confidence in the existing team, noting, "LU has a very fortunate aspect; its human resources are very strong. There are sufficient faculty members. The university has a lot of potential, and it will soon improve its ranking and all other aspects."
Bringing Extensive Administrative Experience
Prof Saini, who moves from the position of Vice-Chancellor at Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology in Gorakhpur, brings a wealth of experience to the role. An IIT alumnus, he addressed queries about leading a century-old state university despite his technical background.
"I have already served in three universities, and this will be my fourth state university. I am fully aware of the state system," he asserted. He highlighted his significant administrative contributions, including designing the examination system at GB Pant Technical University as the additional controller of examinations.
He also spearheaded a major digital shift as the coordinator of the Uttar Pradesh State Entrance Examination (UPSEE). "In 2004, I decentralised it for the first time and made it online. The govt of India's online system came later, but our online model was already in place," Prof Saini recounted.
Roadmap to be Decided After Consultations
The new Vice-Chancellor has not yet set specific goals for Lucknow University. He plans to formulate a clear roadmap after holding detailed discussions with faculty members from all departments. Prof Saini added that he will finalize his date of joining after a discussion with the Governor.
The search for a new VC began after the former Vice-Chancellor, Prof Alok Kumar Rai, was appointed as the director of the Indian Institute of Management-Kolkata on July 30. The Chancellor's office had invited applications for the prestigious post on July 17.
