Jawaharlal Nehru University has made a big decision. Now the Vice Chancellor here will be called Vice Chancellor. Which there was also consensus in the meeting.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has taken an important decision. Now in this university, he will be called 'Vice Chancellor' and not 'Vice Chancellor'. This change is not just of words, but is also related to thinking and tradition. The current Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shantishree Dhulipudi Pandit herself placed this proposal in the meeting of the Executive Council of the University, which has also got consensus.

This decision will be implemented from 2025. This means that from now on, in all the official documents of the University, such as degree certificate, appointment letter or other government papers, the word 'Vice Chancellor' will be replaced by 'Vice Chancellor'. When Prof. Shantishree signs any document, 'Vice Chancellor' will be written along with her name.

Why was the change made?

There are two major reasons behind this decision – first, gender neutrality and second, connection with Indian educational tradition.
The word ‘Kulpati’ means – ‘Kul Ka Pati’ i.e. male head of the family. This word reflects male-dominated thinking. On the other hand, there is no such gender determination in the word ‘Kulguru’. It is a word that can be used equally for any woman or man.

Professor Shantishree has clearly said that this change is being made to promote inclusive thinking, so that no one feels different just on the basis of gender. He believes that language also forms the thinking of our society and we should use such a language which is respectful for everyone.

Connection with Indian tradition

The word ‘Kulguru’ has its roots in the ancient Guru-Shishya tradition of India. In old times, the center of education was Gurukul and the person who taught there was called Kulguru. He was not only a teacher but also a guide. In this tradition, the 'Guru' was considered not just a knowledge provider, but also a moral and mental strengthener.

This move of JNU is inspired by this thinking. Prof. Shantishree said that in the Indian model, education is not limited to books, it also shapes thinking, behavior and culture. Therefore, the word 'Kulguru' is closer to this tradition.

Proposal has been made in other states as well

Let us tell you that this is not the first time that an institution has talked about calling the Vice Chancellor as Kulguru. Earlier, in states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, a proposal has come up to adopt the word 'Kulguru' instead of 'Vice Chancellor' in universities.