Patna University bid to woo overseas students

- PU to participate in camps abroad

Determined to revive its global glory, the Patna University would participate in camps organised abroad by the University Grants Commission and the Association of Indian Universities to draw attention of foreign students.

Pro-vice-chancellor Ranjit Kumar Verma said: “For the past few years, the University Grants Commission and the Association of Indian Universities have been organising camps in foreign countries. The Patna University would participate in such camps through which university can get foreign students.”

Students from abroad used to take admission in PU in the ’80s. But there has been a steady decline in the number of foreigners over the years.

Randhir Kumar Singh, a teacher of Patna College, said: “The number students from abroad declined in the universities in the state because of irregular academic sessions, poor academic support (shortage of teachers) and lack of infrastructure.” He said: “In the past two decades, the (Patna) university has seen a steady decline in the number of foreign students. Why should students from far-off places come to Bihar if there are no teachers and attractive courses?”

But now the Patna University administration seems determined to revive the old tradition. Verma, the pro-vice-chancellor, said: “The academic calendar has been streamlined. We are hopeful that by the next academic session teachers will be recruited.”

Verma said: “The varsity will also stress on the improvement of infrastructure to woo students from abroad.”

The education department on Tuesday approved Rs 18.53 crore for the renovation of various hostels and colleges affiliated to the varsity.

Source: Telegraph