Date:01/08/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/08/01/stories/2006080101420200.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Visakhapatnam

Andhra University takes students on board

Staff Reporter

VISAKHAPATNAM: Andhra University has brought out a student charter that reflects its goals and commitment and the responsibilities of the students to improve the environment by upholding its values.

The most interesting feature of the charter is that it provides for not only the continuous and objective evaluation of students but also a provision to empower the students to evaluate the performance of the teachers.

An opportunity will also be provided to the students to participate in the decision-making process by being nominated as members of the quality circles, board of studies, advisory boards and academic senate.

The charter, prepared by Principal of Ambedkar College of Law R. Venkat Rao and Dean of Student Affairs R. Sudarsana Rao, was released at a function by National Assessment and Accreditation Committee Director V.S. Prasada Rao on Monday. Vice-Chancellor L. Venugopal Reddy presided.

Dr. Rao said publication of student charter and setting up of Internal Quality Assurance Cell would put an institute on a strong footing during assessment by NAAC.

The Vice-Chancellor said they wanted to reiterate their commitment for recognising the rights of the students.

According to the charter, the prime aim of AU is to see that every student has equal access to competent and qualitative teaching, which leads to vibrant academic, social and personal growth on and off the campus.

"In this endeavour, the university seeks the cooperation of all the students and requests them to discharge their own responsibilities for providing a conducive academic environment and enrich the life of the varsity community," Prof. Sudarsana Rao said.