02-05-2025
In a first, woman to head Xavier's in interim role
Mumbai: For the first time in its 156-year history, St Xavier's College, Mumbai, will be led by a woman—even if temporarily.
Karuna Gokarn
(55), a microbiologist and current vice-principal (academics), has been appointed as the in-charge principal by the
Jesuit Board
. She will take charge following Rajendra Shinde's retirement on May 31.
Shinde, who had made history as the college's first principal of another faith, has served seven years in the role. With govt issuing an NOC, the college is expected to begin the recruitment process for a permanent principal soon. Until then, Gokarn will hold fort, becoming the first woman to head the iconic south Mumbai institute.
Gokarn has been associated with the college for 30 years, starting off as a microbiology teacher, then heading the biotechnology department, and more recently, being picked as nodal officer for implementation of NEP 2020 and director, internal quality assurance cell. Gokarn, who will take charge on June 1, said even if it is an in-charge post, it is a great opportunity to head the Jesuit institution. "I am acquainted with the staff and working in different portfolios has helped me gain confidence." She said she experienced extreme job satisfaction in the multiple roles she has handled and is looking forward to this one.
The college has had 22 Jesuit priests as principals. In 2015, Agnelo Menezes became the first non-Jesuit principal and Shinde took charge in 2018.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Rector Father Keith D'Souza said Gokarn's appointment is in line with the policy of inclusion. "We are happy that we have been able to identify a capable candidate to assume leadership in this period of transition. Around 70% of our teaching staff and students' bodies are women," he said, adding that Gokarn's appointment is for six months or till the new principal is appointed.
Shinde said choosing a woman for the role goes on to fortify the institute's inclusion policy. The college was among the top 100 in NIRF for four out of six years during his tenure. During his term, the college started over a dozen new programmes and four new PhD courses, reinstated NCC after almost five decades and reintroduced Marathi after 45 years. The college even got various grants of Rs 13 crore.
