Extension of University Professors solely on merit, eligibility: Sakeena Itoo

Jammu: Minister for Higher Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Wednesday informed the House that the age of superannuation in respect of University Professors is being extended by a Review Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary.
The Minister was replying to a question raised by Dr. Narinder Singh Raina in the Legislative Assembly.
She informed that the Committee also comprises Vice-Chancellor of the concerned University and Administrative Secretary, Higher Education Department, J&K. The Committee may co-opt a member from the Finance/Law Department and Special Secretary/Additional Secretary from the Higher Education Department, she added.
The Minister said that the Review Committee has decided to approve the extension of the eligible superannuating Professors for 03 years from 62 to 65 years. However, on completion of each year the concerned Vice Chancellor shall review the performance in each case subject to the minimum benchmark relating to Research Publications, Classroom Teaching, Academic Contribution and overall work and conduct of the concerned in the preceding year. She said that continuation of such Professors shall be subject to attaining such minimum benchmark.
The Minister said that the method has been meticulously structured to prevent any favoritism or a pick and choose approach, thereby, holding the principles of fairness and institutional integrity. She said that it is rule based and each case is scrutinized in light of the laid down parameters including general conduct and behaviour in terms of integrity, thereby reinforcing the credibility of the mechanism, leaving no scope for arbitrary decision-making.
The Minister said that enhancement of superannuation age of University Professors is structured, meticulously designed to ensure that extensions are granted solely on the basis of merit, eligibility criteria and compliance with the established parameters.
The Minister said that the mechanism is not intended to foster a culture of sycophancy but rather to uphold the highest academic and ethical standards in the selection process. She said that J&K has implemented the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020 in letter and spirit.