PPU strengthens new colleges with academic support teams

Patna: In a move aimed at strengthening higher education, Patliputra University (PPU) has deployed one representative from its constituent colleges to each of the newly established govt degree colleges under its jurisdiction to ensure their smooth functioning.According to PPU registrar Abu Bakar, the arrangement has been made for 16 newly established Rajkiya Degree Colleges located at the block level across Patna and Nalanda districts. The university has already appointed principals-in-charge for these institutions and has now nominated representatives from constituent colleges to assist in academic and administrative activities, he said.The new colleges will initially offer teaching in six subjects each.

The number of subjects is proposed to be increased to 16 in a phased manner in order to meet the growing educational needs of students in rural and semi-urban areas, Bakar said.The initiative is expected to bring higher education closer to students residing in block areas, particularly benefiting girl students, who often face difficulties in pursuing studies at distant colleges. By providing quality higher education facilities nearer to their homes, the university hopes to reduce dropouts and encourage greater enrolment among women, the registrar said.

At present each of the newly established colleges will have 12 guest teachers, likely to be appointed by the chancellor’s office soon, to conduct academic activities. Additional more faculty members are expected to be appointed as the institutions expand their academic programmes, he said.Meanwhile, in another important decision aimed at enhancing transparency in research evaluation, PPU has decided that all PhD viva-voce examination will henceforth be conducted at the university headquarters.

The university has also made video recording of the viva proceedings mandatory, Bakar said, adding the move would ensure fairness, accountability and transparency in the award of doctoral degrees.The recorded proceedings will serve as an official record of the evaluation process and help maintain academic standards in research programmes. The decisions were taken as part of the university’s ongoing efforts to improve academic governance, strengthen quality assurance mechanisms and expand access to higher education across the PPU jurisdiction, he said.