Prayagraj: In a first in the history of Allahabad University, Prof Sangita Srivastava (62) has been reappointed as vice-chancellor for a second five-year term. The appointment, approved by President Droupadi Murmu as Visitor of the university, takes effect from Sept 16, 2026, and will continue for five years or until Prof Srivastava turns 70, whichever is earlier.The Union education ministry conveyed the decision to the registrar through an official letter dated Sept 22, signed by under secretary Rajesh Kumar.Her service conditions will continue to be governed by the university’s Act, Statutes and Ordinances.Prof Srivastava took charge as regular VC on Nov 30, 2020, becoming the first woman to head AU and the first faculty member to become its VC after it became a Central University in 2005. Her first five-year term ended on Nov 29, 2025, but she was given an extension as the process to appoint her successor was incomplete.Completing the full five-year term itself was significant. Prof Rajen Harshe, who served from Oct 14, 2005, to Oct 13, 2010, was the first regular VC after AU became a Central University to complete a full five-year term.The reappointment also carries two coincidences. The ministry’s letter was issued on Sept 22, Prof Srivastava’s 62nd birthday, while it reached AU on Sept 23, the varsity’s foundation day.AU was established on Sept 23, 1887.“The news of my reappointment is a happy foundation day gift. I remain committed to serving the institution and society at large. I will continue working to make the university a centre of excellence. The university has secured an A+ grade from NAAC, and I see this as just the beginning. We must continue striving so that our students realise their potential and distinguish themselves through their well-rounded personalities and professional excellence,” Prof Srivastava told TOI.During her first tenure, AU appointed 377 faculty members and 616 non-teaching staff, while nearly 1,000 employees were promoted. Her second term also makes her the first VC in AU’s history to return for another full term.
