In a latest development, the J&K Higher Education Department (HED) has re-advertised the post of Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, inviting applications from eligible candidates for the top academic and executive position of the university.
The move comes weeks after the search committee constituted to draw a panel of candidates held an interaction with the shortlisted candidates for the post of VC IUST.
As per the fresh notification, the HED has fixed the upper age limit of 65 years for the candidates at the time of applying for the post.
In its previous notification, the upper age limit for the candidates was fixed at 67 years.
As per the advertisement, the notification deadline for receipt of applications has been fixed as September 24 (5 pm), while the advertisement has laid down stringent academic and professional requirements for the post.
“The candidate must be a distinguished academician or eminent scholar holding a PhD with a consistently outstanding academic record and demonstrated academic and institutional leadership,” the advertisement reads.
The eligibility criteria further require a minimum of 10 years’ experience as a Professor in a University or 10 years’ experience in a reputed research or academic administrative organisation, coupled with demonstrable academic leadership.
“The candidate must also possess high academic standing, integrity, moral stature and institutional commitment besides having the ability to provide effective academic and administrative leadership to the university,” it reads.
It further reads that the selected Vice-Chancellor will serve for a three-year term, extendable up to five years, from the date of assumption of charge, or until attaining the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.
“The VC will also be tasked with enhancing IUST’s national and international standing through academic partnerships, rankings besides accreditations, promoting equity and access in higher education and strengthening industry-academia linkages and ensuring financial sustainability and efficient utilisation of resources,” it reads.
As per the fresh advertisement, the selection committee reserves the right to shortlist candidates and call only those deemed suitable for interaction or interview.
“The committee will have the power to withdraw, cancel or postpone the selection process at any stage. Canvassing or any attempt to bring influence will lead to disqualification of the candidates,” it reads.
As already reported by this newspaper, the J&K government in July 2021 appointed Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo as the new Vice Chancellor of IUST Awantipora, for a period of three years.
Later in July 2024, Prof. Romshoo was granted a two-year extension in his term as Vice Chancellor by the government.
Earlier in February this year, J&K Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha approved the constitution of a four-member committee to recommend panel of candidates for appointment of Vice Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST).
