DMK Higher Education Minister Ponmudi faced strong opposition from college principals during a consultative meeting held at Anna University on 3 August 2023 to discuss the implementation of a uniform syllabus for Arts and Science colleges in Tamil Nadu. The meeting aimed to deliberate on a 900-page report proposing the adoption of a standardized syllabus across all institutions.
However, the idea of a uniform syllabus did not sit well with several college principals. Some expressed satisfaction with the existing syllabus, while others pointed out that they are bound to follow the guidelines set by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
In a show of dissent, Teynampet SIET college correspondent Faisur Rahman Sayeed vocally opposed Minister Ponmudi’s proposals and said that he cannot implement what the minister is saying, causing an embarrassment to the DMK minister Ponmudi. Subsequently, his mic was turned off. Tambaram MCC college principal Paul Wilson questioned whether they should adhere to the UGC guidelines or the new syllabus proposed by the DMK Minister.
Adding to the discontent, Madurai American College principal Davamani Christopher highlighted that certain courses offered by their college, such as BSC Data Science, were not covered in the proposed syllabus. Despite facing these questions and concerns, DMK Minister Ponmudi struggled to provide satisfactory answers, repeatedly defending the new syllabus developed with the input of 900 professors.
In contrast to the dissenting voices, Nandanam Government Arts College for Men’s Principal Jothi Venkateshwaran openly praised the new syllabus and hailed the DMK government. His positive stance received mixed reactions from other college principals present at the meeting, with some appearing displeased.
Raman, the principal of Chennai Presidency College, joined Jothi Venkateshwaran in singing paeans for the state government.
As the meeting progressed, DMK Minister Ponmudi sought the support of the principals by asking them to raise their hands in favor of the new syllabus. However, only a few hands went up, resulting in an embarrassing situation for the Minister. Undeterred, Ponmudi suggested that many principals secretly supported the new syllabus but were hesitant to express it publicly. He further stated that he would inform the press that the majority of college principals supported the new syllabus, and subsequently, he left the venue.
The consultative meeting highlighted the sharp divisions among college principals regarding the implementation of a uniform syllabus. As the discussions continue, it remains to be seen how the DMK government will navigate the opposition and garner support for its proposed changes.
(with inputs from NewsTamil24x7)
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