CPN-UML MP Criticizes New University VC Selection Procedure

Kathmandu. CPN-UML has strongly opposed the new procedure brought by the government for the selection of vice-chancellors in universities, stating that it has further encouraged political quota. Speaking in the House of Representatives meeting on Friday, UML MP Guru Baral accused the government of attacking the autonomy of the university through the 'Integrated Procedure 2083'.

MP Baral said that the provision that the appointment of university vice-chancellors will be made by the Chancellor (Prime Minister) will not end the influence of party politics. He said, 'The rhetoric of open competition and merit, as publicized outside, is just a show. Observing the selection process closely, political influence will be sufficient, and the arrangement that the final decision will be made by the Chancellor does not seem to go beyond party recommendation.'

He also questioned the mark-weightage system set for university leadership. Baral argued that assigning 35 marks for academic and professional achievements, 25 for vision paper, 10 for strategic plan, and 20 for presentation gives more importance to paper marks than quality. 'The post of vice-chancellor is not just a matter of academic achievement, it should be a symbol of leadership of a large organization, financial management, crisis resolution, and capacity for collaboration,' Baral said.

MP Rai drew the government's attention to the fact that even in health science institutes, junior individuals are being given acting responsibilities, sidelining senior professors. He warned that such actions would create serious problems in both universities and educational institutes and could lead to an 'explosion' in the education sector.

He demanded that the government immediately correct the current selection method and procedure and adopt a fully transparent and just process.