Odisha University (Amendment) Act, 2024 Comes into Effect, Marking Major Overhaul of Higher Education System

Bhubaneswar: A landmark reform in Odisha’s higher education landscape has taken shape with the Odisha University (Amendment) Act, 2024 officially coming into force. The Act received the assent of the Hon’ble Governor of Odisha, Dr. Haribabu Kambhampati, on April 12, 2025, following its passage in the Odisha Legislative Assembly on April 2, 2025, after extensive deliberation.

Describing the development as a “new dawn” for the state’s education sector, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj expressed gratitude to the Governor for his approval. He noted that the Act is poised to usher in transformative changes aimed at strengthening academic autonomy, modernising administrative structures, and addressing systemic challenges that have long affected the efficiency and quality of university education.

One of the key reforms introduced by the Act is the restructuring of faculty recruitment. Moving away from the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) route, universities will now constitute their own selection committees comprising eminent educationists. This shift is expected to streamline the recruitment process, minimize delays, and ensure appointments are more responsive to academic needs, especially within undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Equally significant is the reconstitution of the Vice-Chancellor selection process. The Act mandates the formation of a three-member committee consisting solely of distinguished academicians from the field of higher education. Moreover, the age limit for appointment to the post of Vice-Chancellor has been raised from 67 to 70 years, allowing universities to benefit from the experience and leadership of seasoned academic professionals.

A notable highlight of the reform is the reintroduction of the Senate, the apex advisory body of a university. The Senate will consist of 68 members, including at least 37 representatives from the teaching community, students, and eminent educationists. Each university will hold at least two Senate meetings annually, enhancing participatory governance and inclusive decision-making in higher education.

To reinforce the academic foundation of universities, the Act also mandates the maintenance of an optimal teacher-student ratio. Additionally, it paves the way for the introduction of distance education systems across universities, aiming to expand access to quality higher education and improve the state’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER).

In terms of financial governance, the Act calls for the establishment of Finance Committees within universities, alongside Building and Construction Committees to oversee infrastructure projects. All funds received or utilised by universities will be subject to audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, with comprehensive reports to be tabled in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Minister Suryabanshi Suraj reiterated the state government’s resolve to empower universities and foster a progressive academic ecosystem that supports innovation, excellence, and inclusive education. He added that the Odisha University (Amendment) Act, 2024 will be instrumental in building a robust knowledge economy and aligning the state’s higher education goals with national development aspirations.

With these sweeping reforms now in effect, Odisha is poised to redefine its approach to university governance and academic excellence, setting a model for progressive and autonomous higher education in India.