Delhi University notifies 8 am-8 pm college hours for fourth-year classes

Delhi University (DU) has announced a new directive instructing all affiliated colleges and institutions to function between 8 am and 8 pm, with the stated objective of “optimally utilising available resources.”

This directive follows the Executive Council meeting held on July 12 and aligns with the commencement of DU’s new academic session. Notably, this year marks the entry of students into the fourth year under the newly introduced Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP). The academic session began last week.

Faculty members have raised alarms over additional pressure on the university’s infrastructure and teaching capacity brought on by the inclusion of the fourth year. Many believe DU lacks adequate preparation for the demands of extended academic engagement.

Teachers have repeatedly pointed to the shortage of classrooms, laboratories and other vital facilities necessary to support the increased workload.

“The 8 am to 8 pm schedule has now got an official stamp of approval from the university, thereby forcing colleges to adopt such a draconian, anti-teacher and anti-student timetable,” said Rudrashish Chakraborty, associate professor at Kirori Mal College.

A major issue highlighted by the faculty is the shortfall in staff. The extended schedule adds to the workload of existing teachers, prompting concern.

Though the Executive Council has proposed the appointment of guest lecturers to bridge staffing gaps, faculty members warn that this could compromise the quality of education. They have instead recommended assigning the fourth-year classes to experienced regular faculty while using guest lecturers selectively.

The notification refers to UGC Regulation 2018 to support the increased working hours. As per these guidelines, assistant professors must provide 16 hours of direct teaching each week, and associate professors and professors are expected to deliver 14 hours.

However, despite this regulatory backing, the new 12-hour operational schedule has sparked ongoing debate. Faculty members continue to voice their discontent, urging the administration to revisit the decision in light of the practical difficulties faced by colleges.