RTI QUERY REVEALS 319 out of 620 posts in 24 streams are vacant
s many as 51% colleges under the University of Mumbai do not have principals. According to information obtained by an activist under the Right to Information Act (RTI), 319 out of 620 principal posts in the colleges registered with the university are vacant in 24 streams.
Some of the renowned city colleges in law, management, commerce, arts, engineering, aviation, architect do not have principals, revealed the reply received by Anil Galgali, RTI activist.
Altogether, 28 out of 35 law colleges, 50 out of 137 arts, science and commerce colleges and 12 of the 14 architect colleges do not have a principal. “These figures are shocking as the situation at an educational institute can be chaotic if the principal is missing,“ said Dr Marie Fernandes, principal of St Andrews College, Bandra.
The principal also serves as a common link between the education department, the Mumbai University, the college management and the college. “The absence of a principal could adversely affect coordination with the above agencies and subsequently the future of thousands of students,“ added Fernandes.
A university official said, “Every year the university sends a circular to all colleges to appoint a principal as per university standards, which is compulsory 15 years experience and a Phd degree. Since colleges find it difficult to get eligible candidates, they do not appoint principals.“
University officials, however, say the situation is not that bad.
“The university constantly follows up with colleges for the appointment of full-time principals. In addition, the colleges must be appointing ad-hoc authorities to take care of dayto-day administration,“ said Dr MS Kurhade, Mumbai University Registrar.