The allegations of irregularities in the technology department of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) have raised concerns about the university’s reputation and the future of its students.
Savitribai Phule Pune University Faces Allegations of Irregularities in Technology Department
Introduction:
Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) in Pune, India, has come under scrutiny as senate members raised questions about the functioning of the technology department. Allegations of irregularities, including the running of bogus courses and signing of questionable Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with private agencies, have cast a shadow over the university’s credibility. The vice-chancellor of SPPU has appointed fact-finding committees to investigate the matter.
Details of Allegations:
Senate member Sachin Korde-Patil from Ahmednagar district accused the head of the technology department, Aditya Abhyankar, of being involved in major irregularities. According to Korde-Patil, the department has signed MoUs with private institutes and companies to run courses with exorbitant fees. These courses, not mentioned on the university’s website, enroll hundreds of students who are given rooms in the university hostel, reserved by law for students studying within the university’s departments. Korde-Patil demanded an inquiry into these allegations and the suspension of Abhyankar pending the investigation.
Response from the Technology Department:
Aditya Abhyankar denied all charges, stating that all MoUs are thoroughly scrutinized and executed only after approval by the Head of the Department. He clarified that the department does not determine the fees, as there is a fee regulation committee for that purpose. Abhyankar also argued that the fees of technology courses cannot be compared to other courses within the university, but rather to fees charged by government-run technology institutes like the College of Engineering Technological University Pune. He emphasized that tying up with the industry ensures better infrastructure for these courses and that the allegations being raised are unfortunate.
Concerns about the Audit Report:
Another senate member, Vinayak Ambekar, raised concerns about the audit report presented for the financial year 2022-23. He questioned the loopholes in the report and demanded clarification. In response, registrar Prafulla Pawar assured the presence of an auditor in the next senate meeting to address all queries and provide transparency.
Conclusion:
The allegations of irregularities in the technology department of Savitribai Phule Pune University have raised serious concerns about the university’s reputation and the well-being of its students. The fact-finding committees appointed by the vice-chancellor will play a crucial role in investigating the allegations and ensuring transparency. It is essential for the university to address these issues promptly and take appropriate action to restore trust and maintain its commitment to quality education.
