SRINAGAR — The process to appoint the next Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, has reached a decisive stage, with the selection committee completing interactions with shortlisted candidates in New Delhi.
According to sources familiar with the development, nearly 80 applications were received following a fresh advertisement issued by the Higher Education Department in September. The application process closed on September 24.
Sources said that 18 candidates were shortlisted for interviews and interactions conducted in New Delhi on October 31 and November 1.
Following the exercise, the number of contenders is understood to have been reduced to four or five, with the final selection yet to be announced.
The four-member selection committee is headed by Prof. Mohammad Miyan, former Vice-Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University. Other members include Prof. Kumud Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi International Hindi University, Wardha; Prof. Pankaj Chandra, Vice-Chancellor of Ahmedabad University; and Prof. Subeer S. Majumdar, Director General of Gujarat Biotechnology University.
The appointment process is governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Islamic University of Science and Technology Act, 2005, along with the applicable statutory provisions.
As per the eligibility conditions mentioned in the advertisement, applicants were required to have a minimum of 10 years of experience as a professor, besides fulfilling the prescribed academic and administrative qualifications. The upper age limit was fixed at 65 years as on the closing date of applications.
Sources further said that the candidates shortlisted at this stage will be subjected to mandatory security and antecedent verification by the concerned departments.
Thereafter, Chancellor and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is expected to interact with the candidates as part of the final selection procedure.
The development comes after the tenure of incumbent Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo ended in August. However, he was subsequently allowed to continue in the position until his successor formally takes over. — (KIMS)