Campus Times | Lucknow 

In a major step toward expanding access to higher education, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University has announced the opening of its first regional study centre in Varanasi. The decision was approved during the university’s 40th Academic Council meeting, where several student-focused and inclusive education proposals were cleared.

First Regional Centre to Boost Outreach in Eastern Uttar Pradesh

The upcoming centre will be established at the Amaravati Purushottam Government Divyangjan Development Institute in Khushipur, Varanasi. Equipped with six halls and 16 rooms, the facility is expected to begin operations in the 2026–27 academic session.

In its initial phase, the centre will offer undergraduate programmes, including Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc) and a four-year BA programme aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP). The move is aimed at widening access to quality education, especially for students in eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Financial Support for Research and Academic Participation

To encourage academic engagement, the university has introduced financial assistance for students presenting research papers at national and international seminars, conferences, and symposiums.

• PhD scholars will receive up to ₹20,000

• Final-year undergraduate and postgraduate (Honours with Research) students will be eligible for up to ₹10,000

Additionally, PhD degrees will now be awarded from the date of completion of the viva voce examination, streamlining the certification process.

Student Feedback to Drive Teaching Quality

In a bid to enhance academic standards, the university has made student feedback mandatory. Structured feedback forms will be used to assess and improve teaching quality and overall learning experience.

Reservation Policies and Inclusive Access Continue

The Academic Council reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education by continuing special reservation policies:

• 10% supernumerary seats for children of university employees

• 5% sports quota for athletes

• 2% reservation for dependents of freedom fighters

These provisions will apply to all courses except those regulated by bodies such as the Bar Council of India (BCI), Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), and Pharmacy Council of India (PCI).

New Rules for International Students

The university has also approved updated admission rules and procedures for international students. An International Student Cell will assist foreign applicants throughout admission and academic processes, strengthening the institution’s global presence.

Distance Learning for Divyang Students

A significant highlight is the approval of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes tailored for students with disabilities. These skill development courses aim to provide flexible, home-based education and improve employability for divyang learners and those in remote areas.

Faculty Promotion and Outreach Initiatives

The university will implement faculty promotions under the UGC Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) through the Samarth portal in 2026. It also plans to send outreach teams across various divisions of Uttar Pradesh to increase awareness about its programmes.

Leadership Emphasises Inclusive Growth and Academic Excellence

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Singh emphasized that these decisions mark a strong step toward student empowerment, particularly for divyang learners. He noted that the Varanasi centre will expand access to higher education, while initiatives like distance learning, research support, and internationalization will strengthen both academic quality and the university’s national and global standing.