Uncertainty regarding the implementation causes principals to seek assistance; teachers are already occupied with academic responsibilities during the break.
Colleges associated with the University of Calcutta find themselves in a state of uncertainty following an advisory released on Tuesday evening (May 27, 2025), which instructs institutions to maintain classes during the summer break from May 29 to June 30.
“Classes of colleges during summer recess to continue on and from May 29 to June 30. This is to be taken as an advisory to the colleges,” stated the communication from the university on May 27.
This decision has led to significant confusion among college administrators regarding its execution. The Calcutta University Committee of the All-Bengal Principals’ Council was set to meet on Wednesday evening (May 28, 2025) to discuss the issue.
“The advisory has raised questions, confusion, and differing opinions. As the Principal of an affiliated college, I have certain views to express. Firstly, I would like to regard this as a recommendation rather than a directive to enforce,” remarked Ayantika Ghosh, Principal of Naba Ballygunge Mahavidyalaya. She emphasized that the summer recess — from May 16 to June 30 — has been established since the 1978 CU statute and has not been updated, despite the addition of academic and administrative duties during this time.
“An academic calendar published by the University is essential, with precise details regarding the number of classes, working days, and holidays. While this advisory is certainly appreciated and holds academic promise, the absence of a comprehensive calendar, provided well in advance, complicates the situation. It is anticipated that we all engage with enthusiasm and joy, rather than viewing this as a burden,” she concluded.
Jaydeep Sarangi, the Principal of New Alipore College, indicated that the advisory was probably influenced by the academic needs of specific departments. “We have already organized classes with the upcoming examination schedule in mind. Our educators are conducting classes based on demand. The primary emphasis is on assisting slow learners. This advisory — rather than a formal notice — serves as a support; the recess period provides us with flexibility. As the mode of instruction is not explicitly stated, I assume it is up to the colleges or departments to make that determination. We are prepared for it,” Dr. Sarangi remarked.
In the meantime, Reema Roy, a member of the governing body at Asutosh College, observed that numerous faculty members were unclear about how the advisory differentiates between ‘recess’ and ‘class’.
“In many colleges, instructors are already fulfilling various duties during the recess period. Internal examinations are currently taking place in some institutions, postgraduate classes are ongoing in others, and internship programs are being held elsewhere. The notice issued by the University does not clarify whether classes should be conducted online or offline during recess; additionally, if a teacher is absent during this time, does it count as any type of leave — greater clarity from the university would have been beneficial in resolving the confusion,” she stated.
Dr. Roy, however, reiterated that the welfare of students remains the top priority. “Regardless, we have been conducting classes during recess to assist in completing the syllabus,” she concluded.
Also Read: https://latestindiannews.com/national-education-policy/