Among the 11 government universities in Gujarat, four currently lack permanent vice-chancellors, among which three under the Common Universities Act. These universities have been functioning for a whole term under acting vice-chancellors.

Bhavnagar University, Saurashtra University, Bhakta Kavi Narsinh Mehta University in Junagadh, and Children University have been without a permanent Vice Chancellor for extended periods. Three of these universities fall under the Common University Act, which was implemented in October last year.

Junagadh University and Saurashtra University have been particularly impacted by the lack of permanent vice-chancellors. In Junagadh, the acting vice-chancellor has completed three separate terms, spanning over two years. 

Saurashtra University has also been without a permanent leader for more than two and a half years, making it likely that a full three-year term will be completed under acting leadership.

The appointment process for the vice-chancellors has faced challenges in some universities. Bhavnagar University recently resumed with its search committee after the appointed individual failed to assume office.

Additionally, M S University (Maharaja Sayajirao University) in Vadodara will soon be without a permanent vice-chancellor as the current incumbent’s term nears completion.

Despite the Common Universities Act being in place for nearly a year, the appointment of permanent vice-chancellors remains uncertain for these four universities.

What is a Common Universities Act?

The act unifies the legislation governing all public universities in Gujarat, including any new public universities that the state government may establish. It also repeals all the separate legislations that govern each public university in Gujarat. The act came into effect on October 9, 2023.

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