Ahmedabad: With the model code of conduct (MCC) in force across Gujarat for the civic body elections, its selective application in the technical education sector has sparked controversy. A recent episode has raised questions over whether differing standards are being followed for govt and private institutions.In Surat, an artificial intelligence-based training programme for professors of a govt engineering college was cancelled, citing MCC restrictions. The programme, seen as crucial for faculty upskilling, was called off after the technical education department reportedly invoked the election code as justification. In contrast, Ahmedabad-based Cept University, a private institution, is scheduled to hold a short-term faculty development programme (FDP) from April 15 to 19 on civil engineering material and technology. Importantly, 36 faculty members from govt engineering colleges across the state have been directed to attend the programme on a compulsory basis. The directive extends beyond Ahmedabad to colleges in Morbi, Bharuch, Gandhinagar, Bhuj, Patan, Valsad, Bhavnagar, Modasa, Rajkot, Vyara, Dahod and Godhra. Assistant professors, associate professors, and lecturers have all been instructed to participate. Colleges have also been asked to make alternate academic arrangements during the faculty’s absence. Faculty members who are unable to attend have been asked to submit valid reasons, which will be verified by their institutional heads. Those deployed on election duty have been instructed to furnish official deployment orders as proof. “The inconsistency has caused widespread resentment among govt college faculty members,” said a senior professor. Educators contend that while govt-run programmes are cancelled citing MCC, participation in private university programmes is being enforced, raising concerns over fairness and policy consistency. Faculty have urged authorities to issue clear and uniform guidelines to prevent such contradictions, warning that arbitrary decisions could disrupt academic activities and adversely affect staff morale.
