Assam Government’s Decision on Part-Time Faculty Sparks Concerns in Engineering Colleges

A recent government directive to remove contractual staff has caused unrest in Assam’s engineering colleges and polytechnics, following the State Cabinet’s decision to re-engage part-time faculty. In September, the Cabinet approved the reappointment of 451 part-time faculty members to fill vacant posts. However, the Higher Education Department’s directive only includes those hired by the Director of Technical Education (DTE), leaving out 125 faculty members hired by college principals.

At Assam Engineering College (AEC), the reduction in faculty could affect AICTE approval and NBA accreditation, as faculty numbers may fall below the required level. AEC is currently preparing for its third NBA accreditation renewal. Faculty members have raised concerns about retaining non-local TEQIP faculty while local part-time staff face uncertainty.