The administration of Periyar University has made a significant move by replacing the heads of seven departments at once. This is a rare event; in fact, it hasn’t happened in the last twenty years. The university has a total of 19 departments, and the rules state that heads of departments (HoDs) should ideally rotate every three years. However, many HoDs had stayed in their positions for over a decade, often with backing from the university administration.
This change seems to address issues of representation. Reports suggest that professors from Scheduled Castes and Most Backward Classes rarely got the chance to take on these leadership roles. The recent shift started when T. Periasamy, the head of the Tamil department, was changed after 12 years in the role. Following this, the Vice-Chancellor’s committee took a closer look at other long-serving HoDs and made necessary adjustments.
Faculty members have noted the significance of this move. For the first time in two decades, nearly half of the HoDs are new. The new appointments come with a clear message: their tenure is set for three years or until they reach the age of 60.
This shift is more than just administrative. It reflects a growing awareness about diversity and representation within academic leadership. According to a recent study by the National Center for Education Statistics, diverse leadership can lead to more inclusive educational environments, benefiting both faculty and students.
By making these changes, Periyar University aims to foster a leadership landscape that empowers all professors, not just a select few. It’s a step toward a more balanced and equitable academic environment.
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