AHMEDABAD: Gujarat University (GU) is seeking National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) recognition after a six-year hiatus, but the institution’s preparation efforts have sparked controversy.
In an unusual move, the university ordered tailored grey blazers for 400 non-teaching staff members, costing Rs 2,000 each, to be worn during the NAAC team’s inspection scheduled for Jan 28-30.
The blazer contract, awarded without a formal tendering process, is just one of several contentious decisions made by the university administration.
The institution faces multiple challenges, including an ongoing police investigation into a multi-crore financial scandal in its animation department, involving department head professor Kamaljit Lakhtaria.
A retired judge’s committee already confirmed financial misconduct in the department between 2020 and 2023.
Infrastructure concerns also plague the university, with the absence of a permanent student canteen and inadequate facilities.
While the administration initiated renovation contracts, these too have drawn criticism for bypassing tender procedures.
In preparation for the NAAC visit, the university conducted a faculty training workshop from Jan 18.
Vice-chancellor Neerja Gupta defended the blazer initiative, stating, “There was a demand from our non-teaching staff to get something special done for them.
So, it was decided to get good clothing for the non-teaching staff.”
However, university sources suggest that the administration’s focus on external appearances, including the new blazers, stems from uncertainty about securing a favourable NAAC ranking.
They also note that the blazers are likely to end up being used primarily for personal occasions like wedding functions rather than official purposes.
The university, which delayed its accreditation renewal despite receiving Covid-related extensions, finally submitted its application in 2024.
The NAAC inspection is scheduled for Jan 28-30, marking a crucial moment for the institution’s academic standing.
