Nagpur University's newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Manali Kshirsagar, is stepping into her role with an immediate and significant challenge. A critical meeting of the university's Senate has been scheduled for December 5, which is barely two days after she formally assumes charge on Wednesday.
A Baptism by Fire for the New VC
According to an official note, Kshirsagar will take over her new position and is set to interact with the media at 12.30 pm in her chamber on her first day. This incredibly short interval between assuming office and facing the Senate is believed to be one of the briefest any incoming VC at the university has ever encountered. Despite being flooded with congratulatory messages, Kshirsagar appears resolute to begin work immediately. Her decision to field press questions right from day one has sent a strong signal across Nagpur University circles about her preparedness and proactive approach.
Key Challenges and Unresolved Issues
The upcoming Senate meeting is poised to test the new VC's administrative acumen and crisis-management skills. Kshirsagar, known for implementing reforms and bolstering the reputation of her previous institutions, joins NU at a time of leadership vacuum. Crucial posts, including that of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, remain vacant, and the exam director is currently in a temporary capacity. This means she may have to rely heavily on her own understanding to navigate the meeting.
Months of unattended issues are expected to come to the fore. Senate members are preparing to raise pointed questions on several pending matters. A major flashpoint causing anxiety among students is the delay in winter examinations for regular batches. Kshirsagar has already indicated that student welfare and fixing the examination system will be her top priorities, highlighting the need for urgent corrective action.
Major Queries Awaiting the Administration
Senate members are armed with a list of pressing concerns. Key issues likely to be raised include:
- The sudden closure of NU's in-house IT Cell, which was responsible for conducting exams for Post Graduate departments.
- The subsequent hiring of a private operator to conduct examinations in its place.
- Allegations regarding excess mark sheet papers supplied to a private agency and billed to the university.
- Confusion surrounding the one-time registration window, which reportedly does not align with UGC PhD norms.
- A significant difference in fee structures for BBA courses under AICTE and non-AICTE categories.
A Call for Constructive Dialogue
Senate member Manmohan Bajpai emphasized that the new administration must receive members' concerns constructively. He stated that their queries are ultimately aimed at helping the university work for student welfare and should be taken in the right earnest. However, he also cautioned that members are prepared with tough questions regarding administrative lapses and decisions perceived as detrimental to students.
Officials and statutory body members express hope for decisive moves and faster decision-making from the new VC, given the current situation. All eyes will now be on December 5, as Manali Kshirsagar's first major test unfolds in the Senate hall, setting the tone for her tenure at Nagpur University.
