Staff crisis hits environment studies at Ariyalur college

EVEN as the world celebrated World Environment Day on Thursday (June 5) with calls to protect nature and raise awareness, Environmental Science students of the Government Arts and Science College in Ariyalur rued the lack of permanent faculty or basic amenities, even though the subject is gaining importance.

- P THIRUSELVAM @Ariyalur

The college, which has been functioning in Ariyalur town for over 50 years, introduced the Environmental Science course over two decades ago. Sources said since 2008, there has been no permanent appointments in the department. The course started at the college in 1998 under UGC norms. Today, more than 150 students are studying in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. However, out of 12 sanctioned teaching posts, not even one is filled by a permanent staff member. Only two guest lecturers and two lecturers appointed by the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) are handling classes. The HoD of another department is holding the charge.