Pune, 1st October 2025: The decline of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) sparked uproar at the university’s Senate meeting.
What was expected to be a constructive discussion on improving quality and rankings turned into heated opposition against Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi. Members objected to his presentation, shouting slogans such as “We don’t want presentations” and disrupting proceedings.
Despite the commotion, Dr. Gosavi briefly presented the report and explained the reasons behind the university’s slipping position. However, several members blamed him directly, arguing that his approach failed to address long-standing issues.
Senate member Sachin Gorde said the university must take serious measures to prevent further decline, suggesting the appointment of an expert committee and better transparency regarding funds. He added that professors leaving the university should be stopped and that a single-window system should be introduced for PhD students.
Raising concerns about research, member Harsh Gaikwad argued that while there is talk of inadequate funding, in reality, the funds are not reaching researchers. Responding, Dr. Gosavi said the university has allocated ₹5 crore for research, of which ₹2.36 crore has already been distributed to 195 professors, while another ₹11.28 lakh was given to 10 professors.
Other members stressed that the administration was not acting on proposals previously passed in Senate meetings. Member Advait Bamboli demanded a clear timeline for implementing resolutions and the formation of a committee to monitor progress.
In the end, the discussion was wrapped up quickly under pressure, but members strongly urged the university to adopt concrete measures to restore its standing in national rankings.