My Academic Journey at Calcutta University: A Critical Look

As someone who has earned my Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees from Calcutta University (CU), I am uniquely qualified to reflect upon the institution’s strengths and areas for improvement. Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered both positive and negative aspects of the university. While I found the curriculum and departmental structure to be enriching, my experience with the university administration and academic bureaucracy was far from satisfactory.

The Positive Aspects of CU

Up until my Master’s degree, I did not have many regrets. The marking system was indeed bizarre, but I found the curriculum engaging, and the department and syllabus during my Master’s were particularly cherished. The lack of comprehensive laboratory facilities was frustrating at times, but it did not overshadow the overall positive aspects of my education.

The Challenges: Academic Bureaucracy and Administration

The administrative procedures and bureaucracy at CU were the most challenging aspects of my academic experience. During my Ph.D., my interactions with officials became more frequent, revealing the pervasive inefficiency and unprofessionalism of the administrative staff. They seemed to have a clear understanding of what was not within their job scope and would direct students and researchers to other departments quickly, often without real assistance.

For example, not just students, but even senior research fellows and postdocs faced a lack of respect and support. Small tasks and queries often led to long and frustrating journeys across multiple departments. The university websites were practically useless, with no clear instructions or protocols, no helpline numbers, and an outdated payment system for all fees. The process of thesis evaluation was also shrouded in mystery, with a delay in degree conferral ranging from 9 months to 2 years.

The Higher Up the Food Chain: Administrators and Their Priorities

The highest-ranking university administrators were, in my opinion, the most detrimental to the institution. They seemed to prioritize their own comfort and financial security over student needs and academic integrity. Instead of addressing requests from students and faculty to improve the academic system, they ignored these concerns. Their primary aim seemed to be maintaining their positions and earning fat salaries followed by generous pensions.

It is disheartening to see one of India’s oldest and most prestigious universities deteriorate due to an administration that is more concerned with personal gains than academic excellence. This attitude has led to a system that stifles the growth of both students and faculty, ultimately affecting the entire academic landscape.

Conclusion

While Calcutta University has a rich history and offers a valuable academic experience in many respects, the significant issues with its administration and bureaucracy cannot be ignored. It is crucial for the university to address these concerns and implement reforms to ensure that future generations of students and researchers can thrive in an environment that values both academic excellence and institutional integrity.

By acknowledging the challenges and working to improve, Calcutta University can regain its standing as a leading academic institution in India.