BGSBU functioning reviewed, fund utilisation questionable: Sakina Itoo
Srinagar, Sep 1: Minister for Education Sakina Itoo on Monday reviewed the functioning of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri, at a high-level meeting here and directed officials to obtain utilisation certificates (UCs) of funds spent by the varsity so far on various projects.
The meeting came in the backdrop of recent reports flagging a steep decline in administrative and academic functioning of the University, with PDP president Mehbooba Mufti alleging gross mismanagement in running the Varsity's affairs.
Talking to Greater Kashmir soon after the meeting, Sakina Itoo said she took stock of various academic and administrative issues concerning the University.
“I have asked my officials to obtain utilisation certificates from the University authorities and examine if the funds have been utilised properly on various projects,” she said.
Itoo said she also directed the higher education department to constitute a funds management committee for the University to oversee the proper fund utilisation after proper evaluation of projects for the funds are sought.
The minister said she also reviewed the status of academic programmes, admissions and availability of faculty. “I was told that some litigations are pending regarding the academic arrangement of teachers. I have directed the University to ensure that said litigations are closed and a report on this is submitted within two weeks,” she said.
Sources said various key academic and administrative concerns formed part of deliberations during the meeting, which was attended by the Additional ChiefSecretary Higher Education Department, Vice-Chancellor BGSBU, Registrar BGSBU, among other high-ranking officials.
The matter concerning absence of a full-fledged Registrar at the University also came up for discussion, with a wider need felt to do away with in-charge arrangement at the earliest. The post of Registrar is presently held by Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, as an additional assignment for the last six months. “I have a fair idea of issues facing the University. I shall be personally inspecting the University as soon as weather improves in the Jammu region,” Itoo told Greater Kashmir. She acknowledged the need for a full-fledged Registrar for the University for its smooth administrative management.
Meanwhile, Itoo assured the Government's support to University’s growth and progression.
An official spokesperson said in a statement that Itoo underlined that BGSBU, being a key higher education hub in the Pir Panjal region, carries a special responsibility in shaping the future of youth through quality education, skill development, and character building. She called upon the university authorities to adopt student-centric initiatives, strengthen placement cells, and enhance digital learning infrastructure to keep pace with national and global standards. She stressed on officers to initiate only those new infrastructure projects in the University which are necessary. “The minister urged the University administration that students from remote and marginalised communities should be facilitated and adequate support through scholarships, remedial coaching, and mentorship programs should be provided to them on a regular basis,” the spokesperson said.
