Chennai: Anna University former vice-chancellor E Balagurusamy has urged chief minister C Joseph Vijay to take urgent steps to regulate fees in higher educational institutions, fill vacancies in key university posts including vice-chancellors and draw up a time-bound roadmap to revitalise the state’s higher education system.In an appeal to the CM, Balagurusamy expressed concern over reports of private colleges charging exorbitant tuition fees, capitation fees and other unauthorised payments at the time of admission. He said such practices undermine affordability and transparency, and place an unfair financial burden on poor and middle-income families.He called for strict enforcement of fee regulations and mandatory disclosure by institutions of approved tuition fees, permitted charges, refund policies and admission procedures. The appeal also sought an accessible complaint mechanism for students and parents, independent inspections and financial audits wherever complaints are received, and time-bound disposal of fee-related grievances.Balagurusamy said the prolonged absence of regular vice-chancellors in several universities was affecting governance, academic planning, research promotion and institutional accountability. He urged the govt to appoint V-Cs through a transparent, merit-based and legally compliant process, and to announce a fixed deadline for filling vacancies.Vacancies in key administrative posts, including registrars and controllers of examinations, faculty positions should also be filled within a stipulated timeframe. The delays had increased the workload of existing teachers and affected teaching quality, research output and student support, he said.The appeal also called for adequate and timely funding for salaries, pensions and essential university operations, besides the creation of a dedicated State University Research and Innovation Fund to support laboratories and doctoral research.To provide long-term direction, Balagurusamy proposed a higher education revitalisation mission comprising educationists, university administrators, researchers, industry representatives and other stakeholders. The mission should prepare a measurable roadmap covering governance, faculty development, student welfare, research, funding, quality assurance and equitable access.
