Campus Times | Lucknow

Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow, has announced a series of academic and infrastructure initiatives aimed at strengthening student support and promoting career-oriented education as admissions for the 2026–27 academic session begin.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal said the university is expanding skill-based and value-added programmes to equip students with industry-relevant competencies. He also announced that a state-of-the-art Lecture Hall Complex under construction on the Lucknow campus is expected to become operational by September this year.

Major investments in Lucknow and Amethi campuses

BBAU is undertaking development projects worth nearly ₹1 crore at its Amethi campus. The projects include upgraded IT infrastructure, live lecture facilities, a modern auditorium, increased hostel capacity for female students, a dedicated power substation for uninterrupted electricity supply, a new computer laboratory with around 60 systems, and additional drinking water facilities.

At the Lucknow campus, the university is working towards becoming a Net-Zero Carbon Campus through biodiversity conservation, scientific recycling of paper and e-waste, and expansion of its herbal garden. A new computer laboratory with nearly 200 computers, improved hostel facilities, and enhanced student activity spaces are also being developed.

AI diploma, industry linkages and research focus

The university has outlined several future initiatives, including the launch of a Postgraduate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence, expansion of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes, promotion of NRI admissions, establishment of high-performance computing facilities, publication of quality research journals, and stronger industry-academia collaborations.

University officials said these initiatives are expected to further strengthen BBAU’s position as a centre for innovation, entrepreneurship, research, and skill development.

Admissions open for 65 postgraduate programmes

BBAU is currently accepting applications for admission to 65 postgraduate programmes. Of these, 55 programmes will admit students through CUET-PG scores, while 10 programmes will follow a separate Non-CUET admission process.

Students can apply to programmes in Arts, Science, Management, Education, Law, Technology, and allied disciplines, including M.A., M.Sc., Integrated M.Sc., MBA, MCA, M.Ed., LL.M., and M.Tech.

The CUET-PG application window will remain open until June 7, while applications with a late fee can be submitted until June 13. For Non-CUET programmes, applications will be accepted until June 24, with late applications permitted until June 30.

Concern over declining CUET registrations

While university officials expressed confidence about the ongoing admission season, the sharp decline in CUET-PG registrations nationwide has emerged as a concern.

According to available data, approximately 5.23 lakh candidates registered for CUET-PG last year. This year, the number has dropped significantly to around 3.45 lakh applicants. The decline has triggered discussions among university administrators across the country regarding its potential impact on admissions.

Despite the uncertainty, BBAU officials remain optimistic. They noted that the university recorded nearly 500 more admissions last year compared to the previous academic session, indicating sustained student interest in its programmes.