Pondicherry University clarifies on academic schedule revision; SFI poo-poohs university claims

PUDUCHERRY: Pondicherry University has clarified that the revised academic schedule has been implemented in the best interest of students’ academic progress and future opportunities. A clarification issued by the university's public relations officer, Ruman Banerjee, said the step restores the traditional academic cycle, with the 'even semester' concluding in April. Following the disruptions brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, the academic calendar experienced certain unavoidable deviations.

The university is now restoring this schedule to its original rhythm, a step taken with great consideration, to better serve the larger interests of academic excellence and research continuity. By ensuring the timely completion of academic activities in April, the university aims to enable the prompt declaration of results, so that the students may pursue placement opportunities and apply for higher studies without any delay.

The university also clarified that there has been no reduction in the number of working days. To ensure that students do not lose valuable academic hours, Saturdays have been designated as working days, supplemented by a few additional classes, including online sessions, to ensure complete academic coverage.

However, the Students Federation of India, Pondicherry University unit (SFI PU) poo-poohed the university’s clarifications and pointed out that it conveniently ignores the LPG crisis on the campus. “…officials do not address the shortage…students are facing price hikes…closure of canteens, and reduction of mess menu items, citing gas issues. Importantly, several faculty members have acknowledged the existence of LPG shortage, further exposing the contradiction in the administration’s stance,” said the statement.

The clarification does not clarify anything; it only exposes a spineless, inconsiderate administration unwilling to take responsibility and admit its failures, said a statement from SFI. The students' forum said the clarification is an attempt to mask the university’s shortcomings while students continue to bear the consequences.

“...the students are burdened with continuous classes, labs, internals, and dissertation work, alongside weekends being converted into working days. Saturdays are now working days, while Sundays have been turned into a mix of online classes and, for some, even offline classes and examinations.