‘My doors remain open, as always… I am here to listen…’
Shillong, Mar 23: Even as various student, teacher and staff bodies of North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) have remained firm on their demand for removal of vice-chancellor Prof PS Shukla, the latter has come up with an assurance of speeding up the pending promotions of NEHU faculty members.
In a statement, apparently issued to find supporters for him among the protesters, Prof Shukla has assured NEHU faculty members to finalise the career advancement scheme (CAS) for completing the process of promotions within a few months.
Expressing his “deep respect and appreciation to all academicians” for their unwavering dedication to NEHU, he said, “You are the intellectual pillars of this institution, guided/guiding young minds and shaping the future through your commitment to teaching, research, and academic excellence under National Education Policy.”
Stating that recent disruptions have affected the various facets of the university, the VC said, “I am particularly aware of how these have delayed crucial processes, especially the CAS promotions.”
Mentioning that he had initiated work on CAS second time in 2024 with an intention to “complete the promotions by March 2025”, he said he wanted to give special priority to those at the highest stages of their careers, particularly those approaching retirement.
“Unfortunately, unforeseen challenges have stalled this process which is continuously going on,” said Prof Shukla.
He regretted the delay in the promotion process and assured the deserving faculty of prioritising the finalisation of CAS.
“I am fully committed to completing the promotions within the few months,” he said.
Admitting that recognising and rewarding the hard work, dedication, and scholarly contributions of the academicians are essential, he said, “I am determined to ensure that deserving faculty receive their due acknowledgment without further delay.”
Prof Shukla, who has been accused of “remote functioning” by the protesting organisations, also highlighted how recent disruptions have impacted the core objectives of NEHU — education and research.
He said the administrative slowdowns have caused delays in important approvals, affected academic schedules, and created uncertainty among our students, over 82% of whom come from Meghalaya.
Urging the need to restore stability in the university, Prof Shukla said, “These students look to us for guidance, stability, and knowledge. It is our shared responsibility to provide them with the best possible academic environment.”
A university thrives when its faculty, staff, and administration collaborate harmoniously with the ethics of teaching, he said.
“I appeal to your collective wisdom and commitment: Let us work together to restore stability and focus on our common goals i.e. academic progress, faculty recognition, and student success. NEHU’s excellence depends on our unity and shared vision,” he added.
Assuring that his “doors remain open, as always”, he said, “I am here to listen, to collaborate, and to support each one of you in achieving the academic mission of NEHU. Let us move forward together, united in purpose, and work towards making NEHU an institution we are all proud of.”
