dna exclusive: Dr Rajan Welukar talks about his controversial tenure as Mumbai University VC

How do you look at your five-year tenure?

I came here with some dreams which I had presented before the search committee – about the academic development, exam reforms, innovation-oriented initiatives, research, technological intervention, governance, infrastructural development, resource generation, quality orientation, socially-relevant project innovative ventures, international collaboration and student development. If you look into these points which I mentioned, you will find that many changes have happened during the past five years.
For example, in academic development, the university has introduced nearly 112 new courses and programmes at certificate, diploma, undergraduate and post-graduate levels. Some of the courses are of interdisciplinary nature. Similarly, as part of special academic initiatives, we have gone in for collaboration in specialised knowledge domains such as Sindhu Sawdhaya Sanstha, Confucius Institute, Centre for Archaeology, Centre for Green Technology, National centre for Nano Science and Nanotechnology etc. The choice-based credit system, grading and semester system were introduced at UG and PG level. We are the first to introduce credit-based system on a large scale. To generate employment opportunities, community colleges were established in collaboration with Coca-cola Beverages Ltd. Those completing the two-year programme will be employed in the said company.

You have been always in controversies ever since your appointment...

I think those controversies were raked up without going into the depth of the issues concerned. Nowadays, creating controversies about people in authority has become a fashion. When you are focused about the goals you derive the strength to achieve them too... especially when your focus is on the development of the institution.

Recently you were suspended for a short period...

I don't think I should be commenting on this as the Vice Chancellor is supposed to follow what is stipulated under the Maharashtra University Act.

Paper leakages have always been a headache. How have you fared in tackling the issue?

It is basically the question of integrity of those involved. Just one percent is enough to malign the image of 99 percent good employees and the institution. When paper leakages occurred, the University decided to send all question papers (to centres) electronically. It is working extremely well. For the last three years, question papers are sent only one hour before to all examination centres. When we have come to about paper leaks, we replace the question paper within 15 minutes. We conduct more than 1,000 exams twice a year in different subjects and courses. 70 lakh students appear for these exams. We are the only university to conduct screen assessment of answer books.

Have any of projects remained incomplete as you demit office?

Changes, these days, are occurring at lightning speed. Always one has thoughts and plans to improve things. It is continuous process. In a five-year term one will not be able to achieve everything he/she desires in such a mega university.

What is you opinion about the new Vice Chancellor?

He is a learned person and has plans for the University. He will take it to the next level.

Any message for students and colleagues?

Read books, develop patience and work for society. I thank the university authorities and my colleagues – teaching as well as non-teaching, college principals and managements.

What is your future plan?

To be an educationalist.

Have you any affiliation towards any political party?

Not at all.

Is the VC post a political appointment?

That is just speculation which contains no truth. People should instead think about how we can contribute to the development of the university or participate in the development process.