Revamp University System, Revanth Tells New VCs

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy asked the newly-appointed Vice Chancellors of state universities to aim for a 100 per cent revamp of the university system, recalling how their predecessors were remembered fondly by students for decades.

He urged the VCs to address rising concerns over drugs and ganja usage on university campuses. He directed the VCs to take immediate, proactive measures to curb these issues.

Revanth Reddy was addressing a meeting with the VCs at his residence on Saturday. Telangana Council of Higher Education (TGCHE) chairman Prof V. Balakista Reddy and the CM’s adviser Vem Narender Reddy were present at the meeting.

Highlighting the urgent need to restore faith in the state universities, Revanth Reddy expressed his concerns over the perceived decline in university standards. He instructed the VCs to conduct a comprehensive study of the universities' current state, involving consultancies if necessary, to prepare an in-depth report on their operational effectiveness.

“The reputation of our universities has been suffering for some time now,” he said. “We need to work diligently to rebuild trust and enhance the reliability of these institutions.”

Emphasising that the new VCs were chosen based on merit and inclusivity, Revanth Reddy encouraged them to bring pride to the state government. However, he cautioned that any negligence would be met with strict consequences. He added that the government will fully support VCs who excel in their roles but would not hesitate to take stringent action if they neglect their duties.

Addressing drug-related issues on campus, the Chief Minister called on VCs to implement robust monitoring systems and provide counselling to students. “Pay special attention to the problem of drugs and ganja trafficking within universities,” he instructed, urging VCs to keep a close watch and prioritise student welfare.