Situation in State-run universities in Tamil Nadu worrisome: Governor Ravi

State-run universities in Tamil Nadu hardly figure in the top ranks of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), a nationwide ranking system for higher education institutions, giving an indication of the academic environment in the State, Governor R.N. Ravi said on Thursday.

Addressing students and faculty members during a conclave on Indian Republic @75 and the inauguration of Vendhar Museum Phase II at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Mr. Ravi said several institutions from Tamil Nadu figured in the top 20 NIRF rankings, but there were hardly any State-run institutions on the list. It was not because of the students studying in these universities, who were potentially as bright as those in other universities, but because the academic environment in the State was vitiated, he said.

The University of Madras, which was among the top universities in India, had lost its glory in the past few decades, he said. “The situation is indeed worrisome, not only in Madras University but other universities, especially the State-run universities, as well,” he said.

He alleged attempts by “certain forces” in the country to undermine the people’s confidence in constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission of India and the judiciary. Referring to the Thirupparankundram deepam controversy, he said never before had the country witnessed a situation where the High Court had granted a request to light the ceremonial lamp for Karthigai Deepam atop a hill, but the State had put all its might into preventing it from happening.

Alluding to the ongoing tussle between the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor over the appointment of Vice-Chancellors to State-run universities, T.R. Paarivendhar, founder-chancellor, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), criticised the government’s attempt to take over the authority of appointing Vice-Chancellors. He alleged that in the past, the posts were “sold” at exorbitant rates. He said he had served as a Parliamentarian from Perambalur, and had visited several schools and colleges that did not have basic facilities. Salaries were not being paid on time in many government universities, he alleged. “With all this, the current government is boasting that it is No. 1,” he added.

C. Muthamilselvan, Vice-Chancellor, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), and Nitin M. Nagarkar, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Medical and Health Services), also spoke on the occasion.