Najma Heptulla appointed as first woman chancellor of Jamia

Last Updated 29 May 2017, 16:13 IST

Manipur Governor and former Union Minister for Minority Affairs Najma A Heptulla has been elected as the Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia.

“Heptulla has been unanimously elected as Chancellor (Amir-e-Jamia) of Jamia Millia Islamia for five years by the University’s Court (Anjuman) in a special meeting held on May 25,” the varsity said in a statement.

With her nomination to the post, 77-year old Heptulla succeeds Lt. Gen. (Retd.) M. A. Zaki who has completed his five-year term. She also becomes the first woman chancellor of the university since its establishment in 1920.

“Heptulla’s tenure begins with effect from May 26, 2017,” the University said. Her Chancellorship will be in addition to her duties as the Governor of Manipur.

Grand niece of independent India’s first Education Minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Heptulla has been a five time member of the Rajya Sabha between 1986 and 2012 and Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for sixteen years.

“The University will greatly benefit from her rich experience in both political and public life. It will be our privilege to work with her and to learn from her distinguished career in Parliament and internationally.” JMI Vice Chancellor Talat Ahmad said, expressing his happiness over Heptulla’s election as Chancellor of the varsity.

(Published 29 May 2017, 15:00 IST)

Najma Heptulla appointed as first woman chancellor of Jamia

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