Governor of Odisha Extends Tenure of Vice-Chancellors at Three Universities

Bhubaneswar: The Governor of Odisha, in his role as Chancellor of state-run universities, has approved a six-month extension for the vice-chancellors of Gangadhar Meher University, Utkal University, and Rama Devi Women’s University. However, the status of three other vice-chancellors remains undecided.

A notification released from Raj Bhavan on Thursday confirmed that the tenures of the following vice-chancellors have been extended until a new appointment is made or for six months, whichever is earlier:

• Prof. Nagaraju, Vice-Chancellor of Gangadhar Meher University in Sambalpur, whose term was set to end on November 26.
• Prof. Sabita Acharya, Vice-Chancellor of Utkal University, whose term was to conclude on November 23.
• Prof. Aparajita Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of Rama Devi Women’s University, whose term was to end on November 25.

This move ensures leadership continuity at these universities as the process for appointing new vice-chancellors continues.

In October, the Governor had previously extended the tenure of five vice-chancellors until November 30, including those of Utkal University, Fakir Mohan University, Gangadhar Meher University, Khallikote Unitary University, and Rama Devi Women’s University, with plans for new appointments by December 1. However, the vice-chancellor of North Odisha University did not receive an extension.

The extension of tenures is seen as a necessary step to avoid any disruptions at these educational institutions during the leadership transition.