Kashmir University is one of the most prestigious universities in India, and despite decades of trouble, it has managed to maintain high standards and academic excellence. Universities, unlike degree colleges, cannot be established in every district or city on such a large scale. Campuses had been opened to bring quality education to the doorsteps of deserving students, and one such effort was the South Campus of Kashmir University at Fatehgarh, Anantnag in 2008. Fourteen years and still counting, South Campus is unable to commence the basic sciences PG stream, which speaks about the sorry state of affairs. Despite full support from GoI and UGC, if the Campus cannot build the requisite infrastructure, recruit faculty, and get the requisite permissions, something is seriously wrong and needs to be thoroughly investigated. Things become even more serious given the climatic conditions, the shortage of hostels on the main campus, and the financial aspect involved for the students of South Kashmir, as well as the fact that in-demand courses like chemistry, biology, and physics are missing. The public and students have raised the issue many times in the past, getting assurances but seeing nothing on the ground. It leaves a big question mark on the functioning of the university and defeats the very purpose of its establishment in the first place. When universities in other parts of India are introducing more advanced streams of robotics and genetic engineering, why is this South Campus unable to introduce basic sciences? The matter is serious enough to get the attention of the highest authorities; an immediate inspection, the removal of any shortcomings, if any, an application for the requisite approval, and thereafter the commencement of classes are the calls of the hour. Students in one area of our university cannot be left to suffer because of the whims and fancies of a few academicians. This matter should be redressed in a time-bound manner now. Education is the right of youth, and all efforts must be made to ensure this.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
