PANAJI
In the wake of the controversy over the introduction of unapproved integrated courses, the State government is considering approaching the Chancellor and Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju to recommend an academic audit of Goa University (GU).
The move revives an earlier proposal made in July last year, in the aftermath of the paper leak row, when the government had suggested a comprehensive academic audit along with the drafting of a long-term vision document to improve the quality and functioning of the State’s only university. The proposal had also included a complete overhaul of the Goa University Act, 1984, through necessary amendments.
However, sources said that Vice Chancellor Harilal Menon had strongly objected to the proposal at the time, asserting that the university enjoys academic autonomy and that the State cannot mandate such an audit. “VC was of the opinion that only Chancellor can issue such directions. Hence, the government is now considering writing to the Chancellor to recommend an academic audit of the university, at least covering the past five years,” sources said.
Officials believe that the recent decision by the university to introduce nine integrated programmes without securing mandatory approvals has further strengthened the case for scrutiny. “This is a serious irregularity. The government cannot overlook declining academic standards and governance concerns. An academic audit is essential,” sources added.
The issue of falling educational standards at the university has also been raised in the State Legislative Assembly, where members across party lines called for a comprehensive academic overhaul, including an audit and a clear roadmap for improvement.
Despite these concerns, Goa University received an A+ grade -- the highest rating -- from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in August, last year, marking a significant improvement from the B++ grade it was awarded in the previous assessment cycle in 2022.
However, the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings released in September painted a contrasting picture. The university failed to secure a position among the top 200 institutions in the country, slipping out of the 150-200 rank band in the overall university category, where it had been placed the previous year.
