The move to have double shifts in colleges comes out of a desire to allow more students access to higher education. There are only two ways to do this — either build more institutions, which is not possible, or utilise existing institutions to the optimum and increase student strength.
Although existing institutions have limited space and infrastructure, they can, in their spare time, admit students where there is a demand for a course.
But one should make sure this system does not become exploitative. There should be a proper employment of teachers, because all students deserve the best. We have decided to institute a committee that will look into the feasibility of double shifts, employment of more faculty, monetary strength of the institution and such.
Implementation depends on the monitoring committee’s report. We will also have to go to the state government and explain this idea to them; it should not be perceived as an attempt to open new colleges. We will have to look into the provisions for double shifts and, if necessary, ask the colleges to submit their applications to us and then forward them to the government for clearance.
Double shifts mean double the number of students, increased fees and more teachers. The college that follows this will have to be a completely unaided structure, since the government will, most likely, not provide any grants for this scheme. The additional revenue generated by extra fees can go a long way in making the older colleges more self-supporting.
With additional revenue, these colleges can run many more, and newer programmes. But a college needs to think about how long the shifts will be, particularly for female students and those who are working. Double shift means making sure at least some of the more popular courses can be provided.
The double shifts are likely to benefit many categories of students. Those who have been forced by circumstances to opt for distance learning, can consider enrolling for a regular programme. The move will also be good for dual degree students; they could enroll in the arts programme in the day and, say, commerce in the evening. The double shift will open all kinds of doors for students.
Khole is vice chancellor of Mumbai University. He spoke to Labonita Ghosh
