NALSAR Student Body Insists On Reappointment Of Prof Faizan Mustafa As Vice-Chancellor

The student body of NALSAR Hyderabad has written to its Search-cum-Selection Committee appointed to find a new Vice-Chancellor for the University urging for the reappointment of Prof Faizan Mustafa to the post.  

With Prof Faizan Mustafa set to demit office on July 31, NALSAR Hyderabad has been looking for a new Vice-Chancellor.

In its representation, the student body has stated that Section 17(iv) of the NALSAR Act, 1998 permits re-appointments for multiple terms until the candidate reaches the age of 70 years. It was also mentioned that they had already approached the Professor with a request to submit an 'Indication of Interest' for the post, as per the advertisement issued by the Search Committee on April 12, 2022. 

The student body has also elaborated on the numerous contributions and initivaes undertaken by Prof Mustafa which benefitted the University and its students.

"Under Prof. Mustafa's leadership over the last ten years, the University has grown incrementally both in terms of its academic offerings and overall reputation. We believe that it is in the best interests of the University to ensure administrative continuity at this point of time. At present, we are transitioning back to regular academic activities after the pandemic-induced shift towards online education over the last two years. In such an uncertain time, the institution will benefit from stability in its leadership, even as we collectively prepare to navigate a post-pandemic future."

The representation has been signed by 565 out of 840 full-time students, which accounts for 67% of the total strength of the University. 

In the list of his contributions to the Unversity, they have mentioned, inter alia, developing a vibrant choice-based credit system (CBCS), launching LL.M, PhD and MBA programmes, enhancement of library facilities, ensuring that there was no adverse impact on the academic schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic, deepening the range and effectiveness of the faculty, managing the finances and resources of the University with prudence, and running the institution in a participatory and equitable manner.

"In our experience, Prof. Mustafa has also run the institution in a participatory and equitable manner. He has been consultative and open to receiving suggestions from all quarters and has maintained a high level of transparency by regularly holding faculty meetings as well as openhouse meetings with students and non-teaching staff. The student-elected committees have been given considerable autonomy and financial support to pursue their respective activities. In consultation with students, the University has overhauled the Hostel and Library rules, considerably liberalising the use of campus spaces and resources. Students were also consulted while drafting a policy on the use of CCTV cameras on campus, and due regard was given to concerns about their safety and privacy," reads the letter.  

Prof Mustafa has served two five-year terms as the Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR. The University recently put out an advertisement calling for applicants to fill the post.

Click Here To Read/Download The Representation