VC posting delay mars education in varsities

The higher education system in Odisha is in the throes due to a severe leadership vacuum, with more than half of the state-run universities functioning without permanent Vice-Chancellors (VCs).

- ARINDAM GANGULY, OP

Moreover, after months of delays, the state government's effort to appoint regular VCs is mired in controversy, fuelling concerns over the future of academic leadership in the state.

The recruitment process began in June 2025, when the state government advertised for 13 VC posts, promising to adhere to University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines for selection. However, nearly five months later, none of the positions have been filled, and the state's universities continue to suffer from administrative paralysis. Altogether 13 out of 17 public universities remain under the leadership of interim VCs or are completely without permanent heads.

Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati attributed the delay to the lack of clarity in the Odisha Universities Act, which was only amended recently.

"The appointment of VCs was delayed due to lack of clarity in the Act," Kambhampati said during a media interaction recently.