The university that can’t decide if BCA students can write their exams in Hindi or English is set to launch a short-term course to “prepare” an Adarsh Bahu and believes it is a step ahead in women empowerment. The three-month course will be launched in the next academic session.
Vice-chancellor Prof D C Gupta explained the objective of the course is to “make girls aware so they can adjust to the new environment after marriage”. “As a university, we have a few responsibilities towards society, as well. We should not be limited to academics alone. Our objective is to prepare such brides who will keep families intact,” Prof Gupta said.
The course will be started in the departments of psychology, sociology and women’s studies as a pilot project, he said, adding: “It is a part of women empowerment.” Asked about the content of the syllabus, Prof Gupta said, “We will include various related topics from sociology, psychology and such. Our aim is that after completing the courses, girls should be in a better position to understand the dynamics of families. It is our effort to bring about a positive change in society.”
In the first batch, 30 students will be admitted, he said. Asked if there would be some sort of a minimum educational qualification to apply, he said they are still working out the specifics. “It is too early to comment on this,” said Prof Gupta. Sources said BU will also take feedback from parents of the students who complete the course.
Head of psychology department Prof K N Tripathi hailed the concept. “It is a noble thought. VC Gupta wants to a make difference in society. I can’t comment about the rest.”
Women’s studies HoD Prof Asha Shukla said she is clueless about it. “I am not aware of any such course to be introduced,” she said. Educationists are not convinced it’s a great concept. “This is a funny idea, if BU indeed plans to implement it. The bigger need is to improve infrastructure, exams, classes and address the demands of students instead of venturing into such courses,” said retired professor HS Yadav.
Educationists pointed out that the university had earlier tried to start shortterm courses but could not continue them despite admitting students. “Stem cell engineering is the best example. BU had to discontinue it mid-way. It was a sheer waste of time for the 30 students who had taken admission,” said a senior professor.