BHUBANESWAR: With selection of vice-chancellors for different public universities underway, Higher Education minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Friday called on Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and briefed him about the process and progress of appointment.
The minister informed the Governor that the appointments would be made within a fixed time frame and utmost emphasis is being laid on ensuring transparency and merit for selection.
The current status of higher education was discussed, while the Governor was also briefed on the reforms undertaken to strengthen the academic environment and governance in higher education institutions, enhance academic standards, improve institutional performance and raise the quality of teaching and learning.
The state government had earlier informed the Assembly that at least 14 of the 17 public universities in the state are functioning without V-Cs. According to authorities, after implementation of Odisha Universities (Amendment) Act, 2020, Odisha Public Service Commission was entrusted with the recruitment of teachers in all universities under the Higher Education department.
However, in response to the move, many cases were filed before the Orissa High Court and the Supreme Court. Taking note of the enactment of the 2024 Amendment Act, the SC, on May 7, permitted the state to proceed with recruitment in accordance with its provisions.