RONO HILLS, 5 Aug: The Teachers’ Association of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGUTA) on Tuesday extended a warm welcome to newly appointed RGU vice chancellor prof. Shivaraj at a function held at the university campus here.

The programme began with felicitation of prof. Shivaraj, followed by an interactive session during which faculty members shared their concerns and expectations with the newly appointed vice-chancellor, according to an RGUTA release.

Speaking on the occasion, prof. Shivaraj said that, having served in university administration as well as faculty associations, he fully understands the issues faced by teachers and assured them that sincere efforts would be made to resolve them. He informed the gathering that the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) process had already been initiated and that recruitment under the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) would commence at the earliest. Acknowledging the space constraints on the campus, he expressed confidence that these challenges could be overcome through cooperation and collective support. He also assured that the water supply issue would be addressed soon

Prof. Shivaraj said the true strength of any educational institution lies not in its infrastructure but in its teaching community.

Highlighting the vital role of teachers in shaping young minds by instilling the right attitude, professional competence, and social responsibility, the VC said the overall development of students depends on the quality of education imparted and stressed that graduates should leave the university equipped not only with professional skills but also with a strong sense of responsibility towards society.

He also emphasized the importance of research, calling it the backbone of a university. He noted that publishing research alone is not sufficient and stressed that research must address local challenges while maintaining national and international relevance.

Referring to the state’s rich biodiversity and unique natural resources, he encouraged departments to adopt a multidisciplinary approach and undertake collaborative research projects that would benefit society while enhancing the academic stature of Rajiv Gandhi University.

Earlier, RGUTA president prof. Tage Rupa Sora, on behalf of the teachers’ association and the entire university fraternity, extended a warm welcome and conveyed best wishes to prof. Shivaraj on assuming the office of vice-chancellor.

She expressed confidence that his leadership would usher in renewed optimism, fresh perspectives, and a shared vision for the growth of the university.

Prof. Sora expressed hope that under prof. Shivaraj’s leadership, the university would foster an environment where merit is recognised, innovation is encouraged, research is strengthened, participatory governance is promoted, and every member of the university community feels respected, valued, and inspired.

During the interaction session, prof. Tasi Kaye from department of commerce and chairman of Pension Core Committee highlighted the pension related matter.

Dr. Bikash Bage from the department of sociology urged the university administration to consider salary enhancement for teachers and other staff members.

Faculty members further discussed several issues, including the implementation of pension schemes in line with central government norms, the pending CAS process, and the need to ensure equal treatment of all faculty members.