DU’s 12-Hour College Mandate: A Recipe for Educational Chaos?
Delhi University’s recent directive mandating a 12-hour operational schedule, from 8 am to 8 pm, for its affiliated colleges has sparked widespread concern. The order, issued on August 3, 2025, aims to optimize resource utilization.
However, this ambitious plan is already straining existing infrastructure and faculty resources. The implementation coincides with the new Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP), further exacerbating existing staff shortages.
Many teachers express apprehension about maintaining educational quality under such an extended schedule. The proposed use of guest lecturers to fill the gaps only adds to their worries. Concerns about student well-being and the potential for burnout are also being raised.
The move highlights a critical tension between administrative efficiency and the practical realities of delivering quality higher education. The long-term impact on student learning and faculty morale remains a significant point of concern, demanding immediate attention from the university administration. This situation underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to resource management in higher education, balancing efficiency with the preservation of academic standards.
