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Odisha University (Amendment) Act, 2024

Key Highlights of the Act:

Enactment Date & Approval:

  • The Act came into effect on April 12, 2025 after receiving the assent of Governor Dr. Haribabu Kambhampati.
  • The Bill was passed on April 2, 2025 in the Odisha Assembly following extensive deliberations.

    Major Reforms Introduced:

  • Faculty Recruitment Overhaul:
  • Replaces recruitment through the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) with autonomous, subject-specific expert committees formed by each university.
  • Aims to ensure timely appointments and better alignment with the academic needs of various subjects and courses.
  • Vice-Chancellor (VC) Selection:
  • The selection process will now be managed by a three-member committee comprising distinguished educationists.
  • The age limit for VCs has been raised from 67 to 70 years, allowing more experienced leadership.
  • Reintroduction of the University Senate:
  • Each university is mandated to set up a Senate as the highest advisory body, composed of 68 members (including teachers, educationists, students, and administrative staff).
  • The Senate must convene at least twice a year, ensuring balanced and inclusive participation in decision-making.
  • Enhanced Financial & Infrastructure Oversight:
  • Formation of dedicated Finance Committees and Building & Construction Committees to ensure transparent management of funds and campus development.
  • All finances will be audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), with reports submitted to the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

    Purpose & Impact on Higher Education:

  • Strengthening Institutional Autonomy: By shifting control from external recruitment bodies to internally formed expert committees, the Act aims to boost efficiency and academic excellence.
  • Addressing Long-Standing Challenges: Designed to overcome administrative delays and judicial hurdles encountered under the previous system, thus accelerating faculty appointments and leadership selection.
  • Improving Accessibility & Quality: Introduction of distance education programs is expected to increase the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), making quality education accessible to students in remote areas.
  • A Catalyst for a Knowledge-Driven Economy: These reforms are seen as instrumental in transforming Odisha into a hub of higher education excellence and innovation, laying the foundation for a robust knowledge economy.