Bharathiar University Teachers’ Association (BHUTA) has made its fourth representation over the past three years to the varsity administration seeking the filling of vacant Syndicate member positions under ‘Associate Professor’ and ‘Professor’ categories.

After the vacancies arose in 2023, the association had made two representations in the subsequent years, and two so far this year for filling the vacancies.

The Syndicate currently has three members from among academic experts nominated by the Chancellor, one university assistant professor nominated by rotation according to seniority, and five college secretaries nominated by the government.

There are apprehensions among the faculty that matters of academic importance do not get due importance in the agendas. For instance, the university is yet to address the long-pending issue of CAS (Career Advancement Scheme) interview for promotions to all eligible faculty members, BHUTA said.

The association has been asking for the implementation of the High Court verdict on inclusion of past service for CAS, withdrawal of audit objections, and due consideration of post-doctoral and prior teaching experience for promotions under CAS.

According to senior professors in the university, representation in the Syndicate under Associate Professor and Professor categories will pave way for their inclusion in the Sub-Committees. Earlier this year, BU had to reconstitute 16 Syndicate Sub-Committees entrusted with key administrative tasks with the available strength of nine members.

The presence of the eight ex-officio members notwithstanding, progress on academic issues specific to the university could be discussed meaningfully only with the representation of Associate Professor and Professor in the Syndicate, BHUTA functionaries emphasise.

The university is required to nominate one associate professor to be nominated by the Vice-Chancellor by rotation according to the seniority. It should also fill three vacancies at the rate of one university professor for every 10 heads of departments of study and research, schools of excellence or centres of advanced studies, or part thereof, to be nominated by rotation from among such departments, schools and centres by the Chancellor on the recommendation of the Vice-Chancellor.

The Higher Education Department’s directive is awaited also for filling two vacancies in the Syndicate for principals of affiliated colleges elected from among themselves; two members elected by teachers of affiliated colleges (other than principals) from among themselves who are members of the Senate; and one member, not falling under any of the above three categories, elected by Senate from among its members.

Published - July 26, 2026 09:35 pm IST