HYDERABAD : There seems to be little enthusiasm about the three new universities being set up in the three regions of the State, at least among the students.

In fact, a majority prefer to continue with the existing universities rather than go for the new affiliation.

And it has got to do with the names. The State Government chose the regional name of Telangana University for the institution coming up at Nizamabad and the one to be set up at Kadapa has been named after the famous Telugu philosopher-poet Yogi Vemana.

The university to be set up at Rajahmundry is named after the classical poet Nannaiah, who is credited with pioneering the Telugu translation of the Mahabharata.

While there is no objection on the name front, students are apprehensive about the degree certificates issued by the new varsities, which would sound obscure outside the State. "We will prefer a degree from Osmania University than the Telangana University," says a student studying in Sangareddy. Colleges in Medak, Nizamabad and Adilabad will now come under the jurisdiction of Telangana University and not under Osmania. Similarly, colleges in East and West Godavari districts will have to forego their Andhra University status and opt for Aadikavi Nannaiah University. Colleges in Kadapa district will be affiliated to Yogi Vemana University.

Protests

In fact, students at Sangareddy even resorted to demonstrations seeking to retain their college affiliation to Osmania University. Similar feelings were expressed by students from other parts of the State. "Degrees of Osmania and Andhra universities are world renowned," agrees a professor. But this issue crops up whenever a new university is set up. A similar argument was put forward when Sri Krishna Devaraya University and Padmavathi Mahila University were established. "Same was the case with JNTU. But today its students are known the world over. It is ultimately the quality of education that counts than the name," he says.

Only Vice Chancellors with proven record in administration and commitment would be able to ensure quality education and discipline.

Senior professors favour appointing tough V-Cs irrespective of region, caste and creed.

Preference for outsiders

"If need be, get someone from outside the State or even outside the country," another professor opines remembering how OU was put back on the rails by some tough administrators in the past.

"Political leaders these days play to the galleries by choosing Vice Chancellors based on region, religion and caste and not just merit," laments a retired professor. Discipline among teachers and students is also lacking, he adds.

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