In a historic move, Nagpur University (NU) has broken a century-old tradition by appointing Dr Manali Makarand Kshirsagar as its first woman Vice-Chancellor. The landmark decision, announced on Monday by Governor and Chancellor Acharya Devvrat, fills a leadership vacuum that had persisted for over a year and marks a new chapter for the institution founded in 1923.
A Century-Long Wait Ends
The appointment is particularly significant as Dr Kshirsagar is an alumna of the university, making her the first former student to rise to the top post in its 100-year history. Her tenure is set for five years or until she attains the age of 65, whichever is earlier. She is expected to assume office on Wednesday, as the university remains closed on Tuesday due to local civic elections.
The selection process was conducted by the Governor's office over nearly three months. University officials have expressed relief, stating that the decision brings much-needed stability at a critical juncture as Nagpur University prepares for upcoming accreditation cycles.
Profile of a Pioneering Leader
Dr Manali Kshirsagar, 54, brings a formidable 33-year record in academia and institutional leadership to her new role. She is currently the director-technical and advisor at Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering. Her extensive career includes serving as principal, professor, and head of various university-linked initiatives.
Her academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a PhD in Computer Science and an MBA in Finance and Marketing. She is widely recognized for her strong research portfolio, national and international accolades, and a proven track record in steering institutions through successful accreditation processes and improving their rankings.
Academic Community Welcomes the Change
The appointment has been met with widespread approval from the academic fraternity. Senior academician Vedprakash Mishra hailed the decision, describing Dr Kshirsagar as "an ideal blend of research excellence and administrative competence."
He further emphasized her expertise, noting, "Her contribution in ratings and rankings is her forte and will be crucial in strengthening the university further." This underscores the high expectations that she will focus on elevating academic benchmarks, boosting research output, and fostering global collaborations.
In a related development, Governor Acharya Devvrat also appointed Dr Vilas Kashinath Kharche, former director of research at Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth in Akola, as the Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth in Rahuri. His appointment follows the same five-year term structure.
For Nagpur University, Dr Kshirsagar's elevation is viewed as both a symbolic and strategic milestone. It aligns the century-old institution with contemporary expectations of inclusive leadership and sets the stage for a new era of academic reform and progress.
