Ph.D. Scholars Call Out SKUAST Recruitment Policy, Seek Fair & Transparent Reforms – Alfaaz – The Words

Alfaaz – The Words Desk

Srinagar: Ph.D. scholars from Jammu and Kashmir have raised serious concerns over the recruitment policy of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K/J), alleging that the existing scorecard system undermines merit, disregards academic distinctions, and ignores vital research credentials.

In a representation submitted to the Vice-Chancellor, a copy of which lies with Alfaaz – The Words, the scholars said the current system of score allocation fails to differentiate between candidates with significantly different academic performances. They pointed out that candidates securing 70 percent and 79 percent are awarded the same marks, even though SKUAST’s own grading terms 70–74 percent as “Very Good” and 75 percent and above as “Excellent.” They argue that this practice is unfair to distinction holders and called for proportional marking, where marks are allotted according to the actual percentage scored.

The scholars also took issue with the evaluation of Ph.D. degrees, which presently assigns 25 marks to those with 70–79 percent and 30 marks to those with 80 percent and above. They said this broad categorization fails to capture academic nuances, runs contrary to University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations 2018, and disadvantages candidates from universities that do not issue Ph.D. grades at all. According to them, most institutions adhering to UGC norms award equal marks to all Ph.D. holders, recognizing the research-intensive nature of the degree rather than dividing candidates by grades.

Another major grievance highlighted in the representation was the removal of marks for academic fellowships, research trainings, and capacity-building workshops, achievements that were previously acknowledged in recruitment. The scholars said such experiences significantly enhance teaching and research abilities and should be reinstated in the scorecard to encourage continuous professional growth.

The scholars have urged SKUAST-K and SKUAST-J to adopt reforms that include proportional percentage-based marking, equal treatment of all Ph.D. holders in line with UGC practices, and reinstatement of marks for fellowships and trainings. If differentiation is deemed necessary, they recommended a written examination on the pattern of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission to provide an objective and transparent assessment.

The scholars remark that unless the recruitment criteria are revised, the system will continue to deny deserving candidates their rightful opportunities, deepen discontent among unemployed Ph.D. holders, and damage the credibility of the institution.