Nashik universities unaware of UGC notice

NASHIK: The two universities headquartered in Nashik are not aware of the University Grants Commission (UGC) notice issued on August 14 which seeks suggestions on proposed guidelines for ensuring safety of students.
The notice states that the safety of students in and outside the campuses of higher educational institutions is a matter of paramount importance.Some incidents in recent past have necessitated the review of the measures already in place in educational institutions of the safety of students.
The UGC has decided to frame comprehensive guidelines for all institutions to ensure the safety of students with the help of an expert committee. The public in general and major stakeholders in particular are requested to give their suggestions on the measured that should desirably be taken by higher educational institutions for the safety of students in general and while they are on educational tour, study tour, field visit, Excursion, industrial visits or engaged in adventure sports and any other activity in particular.
The UGC has sought suggestions through email at cppiisection@gmail.com within three weeks from the date of publication of the notice.
Prakash Atkare, registrar of the Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU) said that he was not aware of such notice. Explaining further he said, "Majority of the students studying in the open university are part time workers or staying outside, hence the university at its level would provide suggestions in this case."
Vice chancellor of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS), Arun Jamkar said that he was not aware of the notice that has been issued. "The university has not received the copy of circular as yet, however, it would be checked and accordingly move would be taken," he said.
However, the issue becomes important as recently an incident occurred in the city where unidentified people barged in an architecture college and vandalized the premises damaging furniture and other interior.
Manju Bele, head of the department of the college said that such move is welcomed as UGC has shown concern for student's safety including students with special needs and their safety in and outside the campus. As a part of suggestions on women safety she said, "The UGC should focus on changing the mindset of the male and female students equally and address the social issues."