Sikkim University teachers ‘worried’ over low ranking in NIRF
GANGTOK | June 30, 2019:
The Sikkim University Teachers' Association (SUTA) has submitted a memorandum consisting of 16 demands to improve the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking of Sikkim University.
The memorandum was submitted to Prof Avinash Khare, the Vice Chancellor, who is also the chairman of the Academic Council and Executive Council, the prime authorities of Sikkim University.
The items included in the memorandum but not limited to are Low ranking in NIRF, Digital File Tracking System, Gender Neutral Language, increase allowances such as LTC, Housing, health and field visits, Campus Construction etc., are among other things.
ALSO READ | Mob attempts to rape woman after beating up her husband, sons
SUTA also urged the University to comply with UGC guidelines on Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of M.PHIL./PH.D Degrees, Regulations, 2016 as well as fall line with Section 22 of Statute in terms of formation of various committees in Sikkim University.
SUTA further encourages Sikkim University to revoke such rules (CCS) that are not relevant to academia and implement the objects as spelt out in the Sikkim University Act, 2006 both in letter and spirit to promote interdisciplinary teaching and research as well as devise ways to improve the quality of human resource in the region.
ALSO READ | Vulgar videos made on Chinese apps now infiltrate WhatsApp
In order to improve NIRF ranking, SUTA has requested the University to promote research aptitude among teachers by sponsoring to attend international and national conferences to bring forth quality publications rather than wasting their energy in file movements and in administrative activities. Digital File Tracking system and leave application process would liberate the teachers from drudgery of running from pillar to post and concentrate on teaching and research, they believe.
SUTA has also urged Sikkim University to bring gender neutral language and even third gender in Act, Statue and Ordinance at the earliest without any delay. Allowances such as travel, housing, health as well as reimbursement of externals are not in conformity with contemporary realities and 7th CPC recommendations.
ALSO READ | Spells of light rains to continue over NE India, to intensify around July 4
Further, SUTA is curiously worried about pending Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) applications and implementation of PhD increments of teachers.
The status and slowness of Campus construction with regards to various status of the applications, DPR and fund allocation is also one of the major concerns.
SUTA is of the opinion that Sikkim University is yet to adopt a student friendly interdisciplinary admission process in its Admission policy and request University to begin Common Admission Test (CAT) centers across Sikkim especially in all colleges and district head quarters.
