The one thing Delhi University's new Vice-Chancellor does not want is to distance himself from his students. This ex-Stephenian watches Ranbir Kapoor movies, plays cricket and wants to improve the overall academic situation in the university
The one thing Delhi University's new Vice-Chancellor does not want is to distance himself from his students. This ex-Stephenian watches Ranbir Kapoor movies, plays cricket and wants to improve the overall academic situation in the university
It has been two weeks since you took over as the Delhi University vice-chancellor. How has your experience been dealing with the semester system deadlock?
It has just been a couple of days that I have taken over this prestigious office. Talking of the semester system debate, in my view, it has lost direction. I am not bothered with the protests that much. I want to concentrate on the welfare of students and the improvement of the overall academic situation in the university.
I inherited this office with a lot of unresolved issues. The semester system topped my priority list. Now that the court verdict has finally come and exams postponed till January, there is some relief and hope for students. They will get reasonable time to prepare for the exams. The court decision has solved a major cause of concern, which was the interest of the students. It is relieving that the students are happy and satisfied with the decision, though the DUTA would still take a bit of time to be convinced.
What would be your immediate agenda?
As of now, issues with teachers regarding the syllabus to be taught under the semester system will be the first thing on my agenda. There is a huge unrest in the teaching faculty on various things.
u00a0
I think for a central university like ours, it is important that teachers across colleges should have proper workspaces on an individual basis. I am working on the idea that every teacher must have an office of his or her own with proper infrastructure and necessary modern gadgets like those of international universities.
There are a number of schemes and programmes at the under-graduate level that have to be effectively implemented. I want to make the varsity efficient enough to be able to respond to the needs of the nation as a whole. India is a country in a stage of resurgence, it is essential for us to produce the best and contribute to the country's growth. We have both the power and the potential.
Humanities is not at par with other disciplines especially in the context of career prospects. Your take?
I would agree to that to an extent. A survey was conduced sometime back on students studying Sanskrit in which it came out that they wanted Mathematics to be added as an optional subject. Science and Maths students have it easier in terms of job opportunities. But on the other hand, I think Humanities students get to develop a larger perspective of life. I would work hard to make it possible for Arts students to have the best of prospects.
The university has never had a sports culture. Sports is a neglected discipline.
Here, I would have to agree completely. Sports has to be given its due place. I will work hard to make it possible. It is the most important thing on my agenda. I have been a sportsperson in college. I played volley ball and am a keen cricketer. Sports infrastructure has to be improved upon drastically. I want the sports teams in the university to match the status with international universities. Sports is a complete discipline in itself, like any other. The university would have a collegiate system for sports soon.
How do you relate to students?
Students are young and vibrant. They have a lot to offer. Their optimism in life is something to be learnt from. I always like being at a par with them.
Your favourite book
I repeatedly read Gandhi's autobiography. Also, Rajaji's Ramayana and Mahabharata. I enjoyed reading Sherlock Holmes as well.
Are you a music lover?
I have always been in love with music and the arts. When I was young, I liked this band in the 80s called Blondies. Also, I have been a great fan of the Beatles.
Your first crush.
It was when I was still a student. I had a crush on the female lead vocalist of the band, Blondies. She was really talented.
Your favourite actors
I like Robert Deniro. Also Ranbir Kapoor, I make it a point to watch all his movies.
Your favourite cartoon character
I grew up liking Superman, later I graduated to Batman.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
