Future of Universities doomed?

Universities play an important role in shaping the future of students and building a well developed community who forms the basis of any nation.

In a race to reach the top and have a life that is stable economically, socially and materially, people seek higher education as a means to achieve their dream and enhance the quality of life. Universities are bound to provide academic assistance along with imparting knowledge that would transform a community into good human beings. But the recent incidents in the prominent universities are shocking and despicable. Mahatma Gandhi University Vice Chancellor, A.V.George was dismissed from service after finding that he filed false documents before the selection committee for his appointment. The Kerala High Court recently dismissed the petition filed by the former Vice Chancellor challenging the Governor’s order to remove him from his post. The Court had observed that the manner adopted by George, while in his position, was indifferent and irresponsible. It is a shame that people resort to such contemptible acts to attain more power and better position and paying no heed to the duties and the responsibilities assigned to them.

Similar unfortunate incidents took place in Calicut as well as in Kochi Universities. The open fight between the Calicut University Vice-Chancellor M Abdul Salam and the Syndicate members, charging each other with physical assaults and verbal abuses, has brought about shame to the University. Several agendas waiting to be implemented including the purchase of thirteen servers for the Pareeksha Bhavan, has been delayed due to the fight. The closed circuit cameras in the meeting room were switched off before manhandling the Vice Chancellor leading to suspicions that the action was preplanned and deliberate. MLA Hibi Eden and Sunny Alappatt, both Cusat Syndicate members entered into a row at the Ernakulam Guest House over selecting the syndicate member to name the new Vice-Chancellor.

These unfortunate events literally bring the governance of the university to a standstill. The corrupt and the power-hungry people cling on to their position obstructing the progress and the smooth functioning of the University. Such actions could adversely influence the students and tarnish the image of the institutions which are known as the reservoirs of knowledge. It is high time the charge and the control of the institutions be in better hands.