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 | NOT UP TO THE MARK: Early this year, in a signature campaign, students told the KEM education committee to regularise their lectures. They are still awaiting
a response. FILE PIC | At least 360 students of third year and final year MBBS, at KEM Hospital have not had a single surgery lecture in the last three years. “The staff leave for lucrative jobs in other hospitals and private practice. Though we are short-staffed in all departments, the worst hit is surgery,” says a professor on condition of anonymity. First and second year students do not have surgery as a subject.
Early this year, in a signature campaign, the students told the KEM education committee to regularise their lectures, but they are still awaiting a response. “It’s very difficult to learn the subject by ourselves. If we have problems, we have to approach the teachers to explain it to us individually,” said a third year student. As per the academic requirements, MBBS students must attend lectures (theory) twice a week, along with clinics and postings (practicals). As of now, only surgery practicals are on. Says another student, “We have regular lectures of all subjects, except surgery.”
A member from the education committee said they do not have the authority over selection of professors and recruitment. However, KEM dean Dr M E Yeolekar said the committee had never approached him regarding the issue of lectures. “I have sent a proposal to the Maharashtra Public Service Commission to allow us to recruit more professors, which will be appro- ved soon,” added Yeolekar. | 
