HP varsity to allow non-teaching staff to pursue PhD programmes

The executive council (EC) of Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla, has given its approval for the university's non-teaching staff pursue doctor of philosophy (PhD) courses. The non-teaching staff members will be required to complete the coursework by availing earned leaves.

The decision was taken during a recently held EC meeting under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor Mahavir Singh. During the meeting, the EC also approved a 'golden chance' for BA/BSc/ BCom/Shastri course students who could not clear their compartment and re-appear exams in two chances within the prescribed period.

The exams will be held in October, and the students will have to pay a Rs 10,000 fee to appear. The EC also gave its nod to allow students who could not complete their undergraduate degrees due to JBT/DEEd or other reasons to "re-complete" their graduation.

This opportunity will be available to students from the academic sessions 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26. After five years, an additional chance will be given, at a fee of Rs 7,000.

Approval was granted to appoint retired Naib Tehsildars/Kanoongos/Patwaris at the university to handle revenue matters. A detailed discussion was held on the 'Career Advancement Scheme' for teachers. The EC decided that the matter would be taken up with the government by the VC along with other members of the council.