Fleecing by prefixing ‘Prof’ to their names

Bipin Bhardwaj

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 3

Alluring children preparing for competitive examinations, various coaching centres and private teachers are allegedly fleecing them by prefixing the title of “professor” to their names.

The practice of using the word ‘professor’ is in violation of the University Grant Commission (UGC) regulations. The practice is rampant in the city.

Ironically, those who have not taught in any recognised college or university without having doctorate degree, have been allegedly using the ‘title’ to attract students.

While the authorities concerned are in a deep slumber on this issue, coaching centres are making the most of it by indulging in the practice.

Dr Arvind Goyal, a city-based educationist, has written a letter to the Union Human Resource Development Minister, while drawing its attention towards the illegal practice.

Dr Goyal has also sought information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act from the UGC in this regard.

In a reply, the UGC said information was available on its website www.ugc.ac.in (regulations on minimum qualification for appointment of teachers and academic staff in universities and measures for maintenance of standards in higher education, 2010, Sr. No.4.1.0 Professor) were self explanatory.