Odisha invites applications for 13 vice chancellor posts in state universities

The recruitment process for vice-chancellors is underway in Odisha's public universities, marking the end of a three-year pause. The state government is soliciting applications following the passage of the Odisha University (Amendment) Act, 2024. This legislative adjustment paves the way for recruiting academic leaders for 13 public institutions.

Universities Welcoming New Leadership

Among the universities poised for fresh leadership are Utkal University, Ravenshaw University, and Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanjadeo University. The search for new vice-chancellors had been on hold since May 2022 due to a stay by the Supreme Court. 

This legal pause arose from contentions that the 2020 legislative changes clashed with guidelines from the University Grants Commission (UGC).

Previously, vice-chancellors were appointed for four years or until the age of 70. Legal disputes necessitated the temporary appointment of senior-most professors or the extension of existing tenures. However, according to Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, new provisions in the 2024 amendment ensure timely recruitment by allowing for advertising of roles ahead of anticipated retirements.

Legislative Change Catalyses Regular Appointment Cycles

Currently, faculty members from nearby institutions oversee duties at Berhampur and Fakir Mohan Universities. The interim use of senior academics as acting heads at institutions like Dharanidhar and Vikram Dev Universities has been rendered obsolete by the new legal framework.

This development follows the lifting of the Supreme Court injunction on the 2020 Act and the passage of the Odisha Universities (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the state assembly. These changes are essential in restoring regular appointments as outlined by the updated legislation.