Editor,
Through your esteemed paper, I wish to draw attention to the recent developments at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), Doimukh, concerning the ongoing faculty recruitment process.
The vice-chancellor, whose extended tenure is set to end on 3 October, 2024, appears to be rushing the recruitment of several key teaching posts before his term expires. While the official notification for these posts is available on the university’s website, the manner in which this process is being conducted has raised serious questions about its transparency and fairness.
Throughout his tenure, there have been widespread reports of questionable hiring practices, with unqualified individuals being appointed to teaching positions. Many of these appointees have not significantly contributed to research or teaching, and students have frequently complained about the poor quality of education they are receiving. Reports suggest that these faculty members lack the necessary subject expertise, leaving students frustrated with the teaching standards at the university.
Moreover, there are credible sources that claim that the VC has recruited some of his own relatives and scholars, particularly in the faculty of agricultural sciences. This points to potential nepotism and conflict of interest, casting further doubt on the legitimacy of the recruitment process.
What makes the situation even more concerning is the distinct lack of transparency. The eligible list of teaching candidates only displays application numbers, without revealing the names of applicants, unlike the non-teaching recruitment process, which clearly lists candidates’ names, written exam marks, and final results. For teaching positions, only the eligibility list and interview dates are published, and after the recruitment process concludes, no official announcement is made regarding who has been selected for positions like assistant professor, associate professor, or professor. This lack of disclosure raises significant concerns about accountability and governance at RGU.
In view of these troubling issues, I appeal to all stakeholders, including the chief minister, the education minister, the governor, the AAPSU, student organisations, and community-based organisations, to address these concerns and take action. It is crucial to pause the current recruitment process and ensure that no major decisions are made until a full-time VC is appointed. This will help ensure a transparent, fair, and accountable process that serves the best interests of the university, its students, and the academic community.
The future of the university is at stake, and it is essential that only the most qualified candidates are entrusted with shaping the next generation of scholars. I hope this matter will be taken up urgently for the benefit of all concerned.
A concerned Arunachalee citizen