Vice-Chancellor vacancies in Tamil Nadu universities affecting students, says VIT Chancellor

The existing Vice-Chancellor vacancies in 14 universities in Tamil Nadu is affecting students in their higher studies and harms the overall progress of the State, said G. Viswanathan, founder and chancellor, VIT.

In his presidential address at MGR Memorial Lecture, organised by VIT here, he said that the Central and State governments should hold constructive talks and set aside their differences to resolve the issue amicably.

“In this context, the difference of opinion between the Governor and the State government should not in any way affect the students. Their differences should be resolved to ensure Tamil Nadu progresses steadfastly in higher education,” he said.

The Chancellor said that the former Chief Minister and Congress stalwart K. Kamaraj laid the foundation for school education in Tamil Nadu. As far as higher education was concerned, the foundation for its growth was made by AIADMK founder and former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran, by starting at least 14 universities in Tamil Nadu during his reign.

“At present, the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of Tamil Nadu in higher education is around 50% as against the national average of 28%. The growth in higher education has become a reality because of the strong foundation laid by MGR,” he said.

Mr. Viswanathan said that during his Chief Ministership, Mr. Ramachandran never allowed others including his family members to intervene in government administration, allowing ministers and officials to act in accordance with law. Several flagship schemes, including nutritious mid-day meals helped in the overall growth of people in the State, he said.

Alonmg with poet Muthulingam, who was the chief guest, G.V. Selvam, vice-president, VIT, former AIADMK Ministers Sevoor Ramachandran, ‘Agri’ Krishnamurthy, K.C. Veeramani and S. Ramachandran were present.