JNU introduces online appraisal system for faculty promotions

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has taken a significant step towards streamlining the promotion process for its faculty members by launching an online application system for appraisal forms. According to a university official, this move makes JNU the first central university in the country to implement an online Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR) for faculty evaluations.

The new system aims to simplify the submission process for appraisal forms, embracing a digital approach that eliminates paperwork and facilitates efficient record-keeping, noted a senior JNU official. This initiative falls under the umbrella of the university's broader digital initiatives, ushering in a paperless and streamlined process.

OBJECTIONS RAISED BY JNUTA

However, the Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers' Association (JNUTA) has raised objections, expressing concerns that the online appraisal system might unnecessarily complicate promotions by introducing bureaucratic layers to the process.

DK Lobiyal, the President of JNUTA, argued that the existing annual reporting system mandated by the 2018 UGC order is already in place. Introducing an additional digital layer, according to Lobiyal, may increase complexity and bureaucracy.

The faculty's performance assessment, categorised as 'satisfactory' or 'not satisfactory,' will rely on department heads' reviews, potentially leaving room for partiality, Lobiyal added.

ABOUT APAR

The Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR) operates as an online platform for faculty members to self-assess their yearly performance and submit it to the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the university. The online platform facilitates form submissions and assessments at various levels within the workflow hierarchy.

The JNUTA had previously highlighted that over 250 teachers had been awaiting promotions for over seven years, despite meeting the eligibility criteria.

In November last year, the association claimed the promotions had been delayed. Recently, the high court overturned two cases of rejected promotions by the university, directing the administration to initiate a fresh and transparent process.