Maharashtra Governor asks VCs to act against colleges lacking infrastructure, faculty

Mumbai: Taking a stern view on professional colleges lacking basic infrastructure and qualified faculty, Maharashtra Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao Tuesday directed the vice chancellors to take 'exemplary' action against such erring institutes.

He also asked the state government to take all necessary steps for the early enactment of the proposed Maharashtra Public Universities' Act and also expedite implementation of recommendations of the three committees headed by Dr Anil Kakodkar, Dr Arun Nigwekar and Dr Ram Takawle on bifurcation and reforms in higher education.

Observing that Indian scholars are holding prestigious teaching positions in universities abroad, the Governor asked state universities to invite these faculty as 'Visitors' to teach in Maharashtra.

He also appealed to the VCs to take up a campaign 'Study in Maharashtra' to attract students from across the world.

Rao was addressing the vice chancellors of non-agricultural public universities at the annual meet at Sahyadri Guest House here.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Higher and Technical Education Minister Vinod Tawde, Chief Secretary Swadhin Kshatriya and secretaries of various departments were present.

On the occasion, the Governor called for early enactment of new Maharashtra Universities Act, creation of apprenticeship positions in public, private and government departments to improve employability of youth.

He also asked the VCs to take 'exemplary' action against professional colleges having poor infrastructure and lacking qualified faculty.

Rao also appealed for promoting the 'Teach in Maharashtra' and 'Study in Maharashtra campaigns', setting the timeframe to introduce choice-based credit system in universities, setting up 'Maharashtra Universities Service Commission'.

He also asked for speeding up the implementation of examination reforms by universities and involving universities in 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan'.