Concerns Raised Over Chandigarh Administration’s Academic Changes
MP Tewari has raised concerns over what he believes is a deliberate effort by the administration to favor private interests in academia. He mentioned that many students in Chandigarh pursue various academic programs that are crucial for their career development. However, recent reports indicate that the administration is gradually phasing out essential subjects from the curriculum.
Discontinuation of Key Programs
MP Tewari pointed out the discontinuation of several programs, such as MSc in chemistry and IT, MA in sociology and public administration, BCA, PGDCA (which the Prime Minister himself had deemed vital for the country’s future), MPEd, and BA in mathematics.
Furthermore, MP Tewari expressed his concern that these decisions are being made without consulting experts or scholars in the relevant fields. He mentioned that he plans to address this issue in Parliament, as it seems to prioritize private interests over public institutions in Chandigarh. This move, he warned, could negatively affect numerous students and lead to significant job losses among faculty members teaching these subjects.
Response from Officials
In response to the raised concerns, officials from the UT directorate of higher education stated that the removal of subjects is part of their rationalization process. They clarified that while some courses in UT colleges have been discontinued, overall courses are still available, except for self-financed programs. Additionally, officials from Panjab University, part of a committee formed by the UT administration for rationalization, supported this stance.
