Engineering graduates who passed out of Anna University this year might have to forego the ceremony that symbolises their graduation – the convocation.
Sources say an inordinate delay in forming the syndicate of the university might lead to the cancellation of the convocation of over 1.5 lakh engineering graduates of institutions under Anna University, this year.
The university normally conducts the convocation and awards degrees to graduates, at the latest by November every year. However, there is no word on the convocation for the 2012-13 students batch.
No vice-chancellor
The university has been without a vice-chancellor (V-C) since former the V-C Mannar Jawahar’s term ended in July. P. Kaliaraj has been the officiating V-C since then. This year, all graduating students will receive degrees issued by a unified Anna University.
“With the merger of the various Anna Universities, many logistical issues have arisen. The government too, has not said anything about the formation of the syndicate, which has led to this delay,” said a senior professor at the university.
“There is a certain procedure to holding a convocation. The request is placed before the syndicate for approval, after which it is sent to the chancellor. In the absence of the syndicate, how can the proposal be processed?” asked a university official.
Anna University officials said the process of forming the syndicate, involving the government and senior academics, was underway.
“As soon as the syndicate is formed, we will decide on the date of the convocation,” said an official.
In July, the 535 engineering colleges in the State, affiliated to Anna Universities of Technology (AUTs) in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchi and Tirunelveli, were merged and came under Anna University, Chennai. The 12 constituent colleges of the respective AUTs came under the jurisdiction of Anna University, Chennai, including the College of Engineering, Guindy, AC Tech, MIT and SAP School of Architecture.
The university departments in the five AUTs were also attached to Anna University, Chennai. Anna University officials have now sought permission for a supplementary convocation, which means the certificates will be sent to colleges and distributed to students.
“Most of the certificates for students with arrears are printed and ready. They will be dispatched next week,” said a senior official.
Important occasion
While many students and professors note that the attendance at these functions has been declining, others believe commemorating the occasion is important.
“The convocation means a lot to students who have worked hard to get ranks and gold medals. A function would encourage them, and acknowledge their efforts,” said a professor.
