In a recent interview, DUTA President Prof A.K. Bhagi expressed alarm about the future of education in 12 DU’s government-funded colleges.
He lambasted the Delhi government for its continued neglect and lack of support which has resulted in a severe shortage of teachers.
Table of Contents
The Problem
Prof Bhagi said the Delhi government has not sanctioned permanent posts in these colleges and the gap is being filled by ad-hoc teachers.
Over time many of these ad-hoc teachers have got permanent posts in other colleges and now there are fewer teachers to conduct classes and education is suffering.
Financial Constraints and Government Response
The problem lies in the financial constraints imposed by the government.
Despite DUTA’s repeated protests, sit-ins, and representations, there is no solution in sight.
Prof Bhagi said some posts have been agreed upon but the funds to fill those posts have not been released.
So the colleges are in a mess and can’t ensure regular classes and education.
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Government’s view on Higher Education
Prof Bhagi said the basic issue is the government’s intention to shift higher education to a privatization and self-financing model.
He pointed out examples from other institutions like DTU and Ambedkar University where fee hikes have made education unaffordable for many students.
He fears the same model might be imposed on DU’s colleges which would be disastrous for students from economically weaker sections.
Immediate Action Required
Prof Bhagi demanded the Delhi government to sanction and release the funds for these posts immediately.
He warned that without proper funding and teacher appointments the education would suffer and these prestigious colleges would lose their reputation.
He said the Delhi government has to run these institutions as they had committed to fund them when they affiliated these colleges with DU.
Conclusion
The DU’s government-funded colleges crisis shows that the government needs to fund and support properly.
Teachers are essential for quality education and a university’s reputation.
As the new session is around the corner the government must act fast to resolve these issues and save higher education in Delhi.