Panjab University may allow fee in instalments

Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, August 19

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A committee constituted by the Panjab University (PU) Vice-Chancellor (VC) has suggested allowing students to pay the fee in three to four instalments, said a PU official on the condition of anonymity.

The committee is being chaired by RK Singla, Dean University Instructions (DUI). He was unavailable for comments. The committee met for the third day today. Students in the physically handicapped category and the underprivileged category may be given the full benefit of fee waiver. The committee also discussed raising amalgamated funds of nearly Rs2.5 crore by converting the welfare fund into fellowship to be given to the students during the Covid-19 crisis. Reportedly, the finance department has helped the economically weaker section students through 12 fellowships.

After a series of protests by students’ political parties, the last date to submit the semester fee was extended till August 31. However, the coordination committee constituted by the PU Senate recommended forming a committee to discuss the possibilities of helping students in need of financial support. Sources revealed that till date, only 12 per cent students have submitted the fee.

The institution is already facing an estimated revenue loss of Rs80 to Rs90 crore (including one semester fee Rs70 to 75 crore). However, the estimated cost savings is Rs20 to 30 crore from various parameters such as non-conduct of semester exam, less electricity bill and others). The net loss approximately is Rs64 crore.

Protest by students

The indefinite chain hunger strike by the NSUI entered its day five. The NSUI is demanding a complete fee waiver for the semester and mass promotion of the final year students.