Vice-chancellors should be invited not appointed

VCs May come and Go. But Those Who Imposed Him Must Be held to account. Candidates are to be only nominated. Abolish application by the candidates. The position of vice-chancellors used to be adorned by eminent scholars and distinguished statesmen who had commendable stature in society. Such personalities were identified and persuaded by search committees consisting of highly renowned academicians, scientists and administrators of impeccable credentials.

The devastating truth is that higher education is at stake with charges of corruption and maladministration against vice chancellors who must be our torchbearers. A study of the escalating rate of corrupt vice chancellors highlights the deteriorating standards in higher education. Universities are hallowed grounds - they are centers of academics, free thought, and progressive ideas. They equip the future generations of our country with education and the capability to bring about change. It is sad to see that in many cases, VCs, the heads of the universities and the most visible symbols of the university system, are appointed not because they are reputed scholars or distinguished administrators, but because they have the right political connections, the appropriate political or caste affiliations in state universities. There is also talk in some state universities on money exchanging hands while the post is filled. Not surprisingly, expediency, and not merit, is the basis of the choice.

The conduct of vice-chancellors in the recent past has raised several questions on their selection process. Frequent confrontations between students, teachers, and university administration have maligned the image of reputed universities. It is only during the last two or three decades instances bordering on scandals - have dominated the selection of VCs.  Usually, a vision document is prepared by an applicant for the post. What should be the vision of a VC? How will a VC attract "corporate" funding to their institutions? How the centers for excellence will be launched within a university system? During the evaluation process, it is also important to figure out the how multifaceted a person is.  Conduct of vice-chancellors raises question on those who select them.

There is no transparency in the formation of the search committees. Current vcs should not be in the search committees as they are susceptible for political and other manipulations. Reputed academicians with integrity and honesty, Former vcs who have shown commendable performance and those with integrity and honesty, All others who are eligible to nominate can be in the search committee except ones who have nominated a candidate. The listed Referees are to directly submit or post their reports to the Chairman Search committee under confidential cover in an envelope clearly marked "Referee's Report for the Post of Vice-chancellor" 

Reject if the nominations have come from questionable quarters- by giving reasons Persons of the highest level of competence, integrity, morals and institutional commitment are to be appointed as vice-chancellors. Excellent student ratings,  peer recognition  are important. Outstanding publication record in refereed journals, Text books or chapters in books prescribed in leading universities, Evidence of the international, regional or national recognition of the work; Evidence of effectiveness at generating research funds; and Outstanding Service to the University Community, Exceptional administrative / managerial / professional leadership in University/ Governance, Excellent creative administrative leadership and performance are to be given importance. Be wise not just clever - brilliance is good, experience and commonsense are also important. Prepare to wrestle with paradoxes - to drive change for the new, but conserve the best of the old. Know your own mind, but able to listen and take advice from others. Aim to see the value in things not just the price. Have a sense of humor.