JNU VC Faces Questions from Education Ministry for Skipping Key Conference

The Ministry of Education has officially sought a written explanation from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit for her absence from a key conference of Central University Vice-Chancellors, held in Kevadia, Gujarat, on July 10–11. According to ministry sources, Pandit did not obtain prior approval before skipping the high-level meeting, which was organized to mark five years of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Her absence was reportedly taken very seriously by the Ministry.

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Scheduling conflict not enough, says Ministry

Interestingly, the dates of the Ministry’s conference clashed with a three-day event hosted by JNU on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), held from July 10 to 12, and inaugurated by former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. However, officials emphasized that the invite to the Ministry’s event had been sent well in advance and that Pandit could have at least attended on the second day. “There was enough time to plan accordingly. When top university officials skip major national-level events, it sends the wrong message,” a senior official commented.

NEP conference aimed at future-readiness of universities

The two-day event brought together heads of Central Universities to review their progress under the NEP and chalk out strategies for the future. The agenda focused on aligning academic institutions with upcoming NEP goals, exploring innovative ideas, and discussing policy transitions leading up to 2047, when India completes 100 years of independence. JNU has not yet issued any official response on the matter. Also Read: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, MoS Ravneet Singh Bittu Review Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha 2027 Rail Plans