Pune, 7th January 2025: A proposal of construct a grand dance and theatre complex within the Savitribai Phule Pune University campus triggered extensive discussion at the university’s Management Council meeting held on Tuesday.
The project is proposed on a three-acre university land parcel and is planned in collaboration with a private institution through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding.
According to the proposal, the partnering institution has offered financial support of ₹5 crore for the construction of the performing arts complex. The university administration has expressed a positive outlook, stating that the facility could serve as an ideal practical laboratory for students of the university’s Centre for Performing Arts.
However, several council members objected to the proposal being placed for approval without a detailed architectural layout, execution roadmap, or clarity on long-term management. Members also expressed concern over whether the facility could eventually be handed over to the private institution involved in funding the project.
Responding to these concerns, the university clarified that the proposed complex is intended exclusively for students and that its management will remain with the Centre for Performing Arts. The administration assured the council that there is no plan to transfer control of the facility to any private body.
Following the discussion, the Management Council resolved that a detailed action plan covering design, usage, and management must be prepared and formally presented. Only after reviewing this comprehensive plan will the council take the proposal up for further consideration.
Vice-Chancellor Suresh Gosavi stated that the proposal has been noted and that detailed planning will be placed before the council to ensure transparency and informed decision-making.
