PU accepts research scholars’ demands

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 10

Panjab University (PU) has made extension for research scholars’ stay in hostels easier by introducing a single form. Their stay can be extended by getting it signed from the chairperson of the department concerned and their supervisor.

There is no need to involve the office of the Dean, Students Welfare (DSW).

Recently, research scholars of the university had protested against several issues being faced by them.

In the wake of the demand for the subscription of ‘sci-finder’ and other e-resources, the PU has informed that the required budget has already been formulated by the library and the same has been forwarded to the Finance and Development Officer (FDO) for approval. The subscription to a research journal is done on the basis of the recommendations of the academic committee of the department concerned.

On teaching work, the PU said it was always given as per the UGC norms. Research scholars have been complaining that their supervisors force them to take classes.

“The research scholars are not forced to pay the rent in advance. It is only after the receipt of the fellowship that they make the payment,” said the PU spokesperson.

Girls’ hostel timings revised

The university authorities said the girls’ hostels timings have been revised and implemented, as per the demand of the inmates.

“The steps have been taken to take a feedback from parents at the time of admission. This will help the authorities to know the expectations of the parents, who are also the stakeholders. Moreover, it is also required for NAAC evaluation and other regulatory bodies who grade the university at different points of time,” said the spokesperson.

The PU said it had provided additional washing machines to all girls’ hostels and to the boys’ hostel number 4 on a trial basis for the first time in the current academic session.

On the basis of the feedback, the facility will be enhanced accordingly. Also, new water coolers have been given to various departments, including hostels.

“The vending machines for sanitary napkins have been installed at the Hostel No. 10 and International Girls Hostel and an incinerator has been installed for hygienic disposal,” added PU spokesperson.