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SKIMS Medical College in limbo

The vacancy has created a leadership gap, with the institution's decision-making process being severely impacted, many faculty members and students at the college said
12:06 AM Jan 17, 2025 IST | ZEHRU NISSA
skims medical college in limbo
SKIMS Medical College in limbo
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Srinagar, Jan 16: The Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Medical College Bemina, one of the oldest and premier medical institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, is facing an administrative crisis with the post of principal lying vacant for several months.

The medical college has been without a principal since September last year, is struggling to cope with the absence of a head, affecting its academic and administrative functioning. The vacancy has created a leadership gap, with the institution's decision-making process being severely impacted, many faculty members and students at the college said.

"The absence of a principal has created uncertainty among students and faculty. This institute has always been neglected in every sense of the word," said a senior faculty member, wishing anonymity. He alleged that the Government treats this Medical College with apathy and no attention is paid to the pressing issues it faces. “To make things worse, we don’t even have an immediate head of the institute who could listen to our problems,” he said.

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Since September 2024, due to the Model Code of Conduct that was in place in J&K at that time, the college's administrative affairs were entrusted to Director SKIMS Soura, but the arrangement is seen as temporary and inadequate. "The in-charge principal is doing his best, but he lacks the authority and legitimacy to take key decisions," said another faculty member.

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The J&K Government had advertised the post of Principal in August 2024, but the recruitment process is yet to be completed. The delay has raised concerns among students, faculty, and alumni, who fear that the institution's reputation and academic standards may suffer. "This is a critical time for the college, and we need a principal who can provide leadership and vision," said a student. "We hope that the governing body will fill the vacancy soon."

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Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakina Masood acknowledged the issue and assured that the post of Principal will be filled soon. “Yes, SKIMS Medical College Principal issue is genuine one. Director SKIMS Soura already has a huge Hospital to take care of. It is not possible to do justice with another institute ,” she said. She said applications had been received. “Selection process will start soon,” she said.

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The previous principal, Prof. Irfan Robbani, had completed his tenure in August 2023 and was given an extension till September 2024. However, his term ended, and the college has been without a principal since then.

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The absence of a principal has also affected the college's compliance with the National Medical Commission (NMC) regulations, a faculty member said. The principal plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the NMC and serves as the bridge between the government, faculty, and students, year round. Without a dedicated principal, the college struggles to make timely decisions or implement policies effectively.

The government's delay in appointing a full-time principal has caused mounting frustration among faculty, students, and healthcare staff. The institution risks losing its competitive edge and may face compliance issues with regulatory bodies. Many faculty members said the full-time principal is not just a position—it is a necessity for the institution's stability and growth. "The government must act swiftly to appoint a dedicated principal who can focus exclusively on addressing the challenges facing the Medical College and Hospital and steering it toward excellence," they hoped.