Kashmir News Bureau Desk
Srinagar, Aug 18 (KNB): The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, has begun examining concerns raised by students of its Economics programme regarding the nomenclature of their undergraduate degree, with the university indicating that measures are being considered to safeguard students’ future academic and recruitment prospects.
The development comes after students of the 2024 batch raised concerns over the reported change in the nomenclature of their degree from B.Sc. Economics to B.A. Economics after completing four semesters.
Responding to queries from KNB, the IUST Vice Chancellor said the matter is being examined by the university following a representation submitted by some students.
“In light of a representation by some students, the matter is being looked into by the university,” the Vice Chancellor said.
The VC further clarified that while there may not be an immediate issue at the undergraduate level, the university is examining possible equivalence concerns that students could face at the postgraduate level and during recruitment.
“At the UG level, there is no problem, but at the PG level they may face equivalence issues with recruiting agencies. The committee is looking into all these aspects in the interest of students,” the VC said.
He also indicated that the university may provide an option to students who wish to continue with the B.Sc. Economics nomenclature, particularly in view of potential recruitment-related concerns.
“However, those students who want a B.Sc. Economics degree, the university may allow them,” he said.
The development could provide some relief to students who had expressed concern that a change in nomenclature could affect their eligibility for certain postgraduate programmes, competitive examinations and recruitment processes where specific degree qualifications are prescribed.
Students had earlier told KNB that they were admitted to the B.Sc. Economics programme in 2024 and had completed four semesters under the same nomenclature. They had sought clarity from the university regarding the status of their degree and the implications of any change in nomenclature.
The university’s latest response indicates that the matter is currently under examination, with the committee considering the possible academic and recruitment implications before arriving at a decision.
A formal decision or notification from the university regarding the final nomenclature and the status of the 2024 batch is awaited. (KNB)