NEHU's Administrative Crisis: A Cause for Concern
The ongoing administrative stalemate at the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) has raised concerns, particularly in the North East region of India. The crisis, stemming from the resignation of NEHU's Pro-Vice Chancellor (Pro-VC) Prof. Sumarbin Umdor, is yet to be resolved, as Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has requested Umdor to resume his duties.
Resignation and Request for Resumption
Umdor submitted his resignation on December 15, 2020. However, Rymbui, in a recent statement, expressed his hope that Umdor would reconsider and return to his post to maintain the university's administration. The minister's request comes after a delegation of stakeholders, including NEHU Student's Union (SU), NEHU Non-Teaching Staff Association (NEHUNSA), and Teachers' Association (NEHUTA), met with Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Rymbui to discuss the matter.
Absence of Acting VC and Impact on Academics and Staff
The crisis deepened when the Pro-VC of Tura failed to assume the role of Acting Vice Chancellor (VC). Rymbui explained that the Pro-VC of Tura could not travel to Shillong to perform the duties due to unspecified constraints. This absence has raised concerns about the impact on academics, wages of contractual staff, and other administrative matters, particularly at the Shillong headquarters, which oversees about 70 affiliated colleges across the state.
Central Government Involvement and the Future
The state government has taken up the matter with the central government, aiming to resolve the impasse at NEHU as soon as possible. The crux of the issue lies in the absence of NEHU VC P.S. Shukla from the university. Shukla is currently functioning from Guwahati, a situation that is not accepted by various NEHU bodies.
Regional and National Implications
The NEHU crisis has far-reaching implications, not only for the university but also for the region and the country. NEHU is one of the premier institutions in the North East, providing quality education to thousands of students each year. A prolonged administrative crisis could potentially disrupt the academic calendar, affect the quality of education, and impact the region's human resource development.
Looking Forward: The Need for Resolution
The resolution of the NEHU crisis is crucial to ensure the smooth functioning of the university and maintain the quality of education. It is also essential to prevent any potential negative impact on the region's human resource development. The state and central governments must work together to find a swift and amicable solution to this issue.