Andhra University introduces major administrative & academic reforms

Time of India

14 hours ago

Visakhapatnam: Andhra University has decided to introduce several structural changes aimed at strengthening academic and administrative efficiency. A new dean for faculty affairs has been appointed to address matters and issues related to teaching staff.
Similarly, the university has created the dean of alumni relations post for the first time to foster strong connections between alumni and their alma mater.
To enhance the university's reputation through academic initiatives and collaborations with industry and govt, a new position, namely dean of outreach, has been introduced. A professor-in-charge has been appointed to oversee courses such as NPTEL, SWAYAM, and MOOCs.
Furthermore, a professor-in-charge for university branding and media affairs, along with the IQAC coordinator, will operate in alignment under the purview of the dean of outreach as part of a newly designed structure.
A chief coordinator has been appointed for the spot valuation section to reinforce the integrity of the examination system. The roles of the director of admissions and the centre for distance and open learning have now been consolidated under a single new director, who has been entrusted with full responsibility for both domains.
In prioritising student welfare, a new dean of student welfare has been appointed. Under this division, the NCC, NSS, and the department of arts have been integrated. A separate dean position has been established to coordinate infrastructure, planning, and management. This division will oversee essential services including civil, electrical, transport, and security operations, and will be responsible for infrastructure development.
To further strengthen the research and development division, it has now been integrated under the purview of a dean. The projects and intellectual property rights (IPR) sections have also been brought under this domain, with an in-charge appointed to oversee their functioning.
Vice-chancellor Prof GP Rajasekhar said that these institutional changes have been introduced to enhance transparency, accountability, and the efficiency of services at Andhra University.
"As part of this, there was a complete restructuring of deans and directors related to the administration. New positions have been created, including dean of faculty affairs, dean of outreach, dean of alumni relations, dean of infrastructure, planning and management, and chief coordinator of spot valuation. Furthermore, several measures are being taken to strengthen the examination evaluation system. It is important to connect the century-old university with its alumni, recognising and honouring their contributions.
In this direction, several institutional reforms are being introduced in the university's administration," the V-C added.