AMU appoints Naima Khatoon Gulrez as its first female vice-chancellor
What's the story
In a landmark decision, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has appointed Naima Khatoon Gulrez as its first female vice-chancellor. Prior to this role, Gulrez had been serving as the principal of AMU's Women's College since 2014. This significant appointment makes AMU the third central university in India to have a female Vice-Chancellor, following Jamia Millia Islamia and Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Selection procedure
Final decision made by President Murmu
The appointment process was thorough, with three candidates shortlisted by the AMU Court in November. The final decision was made by President Droupadi Murmu. Among the other contenders were Professor Muzaffar Uruj Rabbani, former dean of the Faculty of Medicine at AMU, and Professor Faizan Mustafa, vice-chancellor of Chanakya National Law University in Patna. The Election Commission of India approved Gulrez's appointment on one condition—it should not be used for political gain.
Career path
Distinguished academic, holding a PhD in Psychology
Gulrez is a distinguished academic, holding a PhD in psychology from AMU. She began her career as a lecturer in the same department in 1988, eventually becoming a professor in 2006. Her tenure as Vice-Chancellor is set for five years from her start date or until she turns 70, whichever comes first. This was stated in a letter from the Centre to AMU which mentioned that President Murmu "has been pleased to appoint Prof. Naima Khatoon...as the Vice-Chancellor of [AMU]."
Controversy
Gulrez's appointment marks a significant milestone in AMU's history
The selection process was not without controversy. There were complaints about a potential conflict of interest since Gulrez's husband, acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Mohammad Gulrez, chaired the meeting that shortlisted her for the post. Notably, in September 2020, AMU completed 100 years as a university, becoming one of the oldest universities in India. The university has had no woman vice chancellor so far.