Mysuru: Former Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Mysore (UoM), Prof. G. Hemanth Kumar, has stated that appointing permanent teaching staff in accordance with UGC norms is the only viable solution to increase Ph.D admissions at the University.

Reacting to recent media reports highlighting the difficulties faced by students seeking admission to Ph.D programmes due to a shortage of mentors, Prof. Hemanth Kumar said, the University has been compelled to restrict admissions because of limited faculty availability.

“As per UGC guidelines, a Professor can guide up to 8 Ph.D students and an Assistant Professor up to 6. These numbers are non-negotiable. During my tenure as VC, I had once allowed faculty to guide 10-12 students as a special case. However, with the UGC issuing stricter norms now, exceeding the limit could risk the University’s recognition,” he explained.

He emphasised that filling vacant faculty positions is critical. “There are around 400 vacant teaching posts at UoM. If the Government appoints even 100 Professors and Asst. Professors, it would allow admissions for about 600 Ph.D aspirants. Even filling 50 posts would make a significant difference,” he said.

Prof. Hemanth stressed the urgency of the matter, pointing out that eligible students are being denied opportunities due to the mentor shortage. “After clearing entrance exams, students must register with a Guide within two years, failing which they have to reappear. The lack of available mentors jeopardises their future,” he noted.

He concluded by saying that a proposal to fill both teaching and non-teaching vacancies was submitted to the Govt. during his tenure, but remains pending. “The Government must act on it at least now,” he urged.