Major overhaul in higher education: Odisha Universities (Amendment) Act, 2024 brings sweeping reforms

In a landmark move set to transform the face of higher education in the state, the Odisha government has officially implemented the Odisha Universities (Amendment) Act, 2024. 

The new legislation introduces a series of critical reforms aimed at streamlining faculty recruitment, enhancing academic excellence, and ensuring transparency and autonomy in university administration.

No More Delays in Faculty Recruitment

Gone are the days when judicial hurdles stalled the appointment of university professors. The new Act puts an end to such roadblocks by introducing a time-bound recruitment system. 

From now on, faculty members will be appointed not through the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC), but via subject-specific committees formed by the universities themselves. This change will allow universities to handpick competent educators based on course demands—ensuring every subject gets the right teacher at the right time.

A Smarter Way to Choose Vice-Chancellors

The process of selecting Vice-Chancellors is also getting a much-needed facelift. A new three-member search committee—comprising only eminent educationists or academic experts—will be responsible for recommending candidates. With this, the government aims to inject transparency, fairness, and competence into the selection process. 

In another key move, the age limit for Vice-Chancellors has been increased from 67 to 70 years, allowing universities to benefit from seasoned academic leadership, in line with national and global standards.

Senate Returns as the Brain Trust of Universities

The Act also marks the revival of the Senate, the highest advisory body in universities. Made up of 68 members—including professors, students, and administrators—it will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of university growth. 

At least 37 of these members will come from the academic and student communities, and the Senate will meet at least twice a year to offer counsel on institutional development and policy.

Building a Stronger Academic Foundation

One of the most impactful reforms is the focus on maintaining an ideal teacher-student ratio. By ensuring timely recruitment of teachers, the Act aims to enrich learning environments across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 

Moreover, to make quality education more accessible, each university will roll out distance learning programs, helping improve the state’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) and bringing higher education to students in remote areas.

Financial Transparency and Infrastructure Accountability

To strengthen financial oversight, the Act mandates the formation of a Finance Committee in every university. All funds received or earned by universities will now be audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, with audit reports tabled in the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

Simultaneously, construction and building committees will be established to monitor infrastructure projects and ensure transparency in development works.