Arun Grover takes charge as PU V-C

The new vice-chancellor of Panjab University has his course set. Taking over the reins from prof RC Sobti in a simple and brief ceremony lasting all of five minutes on Monday, the 12th vice-chancellor prof Arun Grover said: "I am not afraid of taking unusual steps for the benefit of the university"

The new vice-chancellor of Panjab University has his course set. Taking over the reins from prof RC Sobti in a simple and brief ceremony lasting all of five minutes on Monday, the 12th vice-chancellor prof Arun Grover said: "I am not afraid of taking unusual steps for the benefit of the university".

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Having set stiff goals for himself, Grover's two-pronged strategy is aimed at improving the ranking of Panjab University to bring it in top 50 by the end of his first three-year term and boosting quality research.

Interacting with mediapersons, the new V-C called for measures to intensify research. "We need new ideas and freshness comes from youngsters," said Grover. He emphasised the need to attract good students and motivate them to take up research. Besides that, he said, efforts should be made to make senior researchers stay longer in the university so that their expertise could be utilised.

The 62-year-old V-C sees a greater role of faculty in contributing towards quality research. "The university is blessed with brilliant faculty. However, due to acute shortage of staff, they are overworked and are left with little time for research," rued Grover.

He also spoke of developing a mechanism to ensure that teachers got sufficient time for research.
The varsity has been reeling under staff crunch - both teaching and non-teaching - for many years, which has taken a toll on the functioning of the university. Gauging the seriousness of the matter, the new V-C held a meeting with the dean university instructions (DUI) to discuss the issue.

Prof Grover stressed on pushing the case of enhancement of retirement age of teachers from 60 to 65 years. Prof Grover maintained that he had prepared the document for putting us the case of enhancement of retirement age in Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai. "We need to find a way to clinch the issue," he said.

The new V-C also aims at introducing concept of honours schools in humanities, so that students after passing 10+2 from humanities can enter the university.

Better facilities for students
Prof Grover, who stayed on the campus as a student, is aware of the problems faced by them and he sounded determined to address the issue. "Students should have a good experience on the campus during their stay. Only then they will come back to serve the university," he explained.

To keep the campus clear of student violence, the new V-C has scheduled a meeting with the dean students welfare, hostel wardens and other officials.

No role to play in elections
The new V-C ruled out his involvement in elections, including students, senate and Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA). He stated that his role would be confined to ensuring that the elections were held in a proper manner.

Considers himself lucky
Prof Grover, who has been associated with the varsity as a student, teacher and now as the V-C, considers himself lucky to be holding the coveted position. "I consider myself very lucky to have been given the opportunity to serve the varsity," he said.