Extravagant Spending at Pune University: Silver Coins Distributed Despite Financial Troubles
Pune, 26th October 2024: Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has come under scrutiny for lavish spending, as it has been revealed that silver coins weighing 75 grams, embossed with the university insignia, are being distributed to over a thousand teachers and non-teaching staff.
This distribution, which has reportedly cost the university lakhs of rupees, is part of the Amrit Mahotsav (diamond jubilee) celebrations. However, with the university already facing financial challenges, questions are being raised about the necessity of such expenditures.
The 2023-24 academic year marked the university’s Amrit Mahotsav, celebrating 75 years since its establishment. Various programs were planned for the year, but many of them are now being conducted in the 76th year, beyond the official celebration period. The distribution of silver coins is one such event that was originally proposed during the Mahotsav year. After lengthy deliberations, the university decided to move forward with the silver coin distribution, abandoning an alternative proposal to give employees bags.
This isn’t the first time SPPU has engaged in this type of gifting practice. For years, the university has presented gold coins to retiring employees, a tradition that has attracted significant spending. The silver coins now being distributed follow in this tradition, though they have sparked debate, especially in light of the university’s current financial struggles.
Despite the celebration, there are pressing issues on campus that remain unresolved. Students in the university hostels have been dealing with ongoing water shortages, and the university’s “Earn and Learn” scheme, meant to provide financial support, is limited in scope, leaving many students without adequate assistance. With the university’s budget already in deficit, some are questioning whether distributing silver coins is an appropriate use of funds.
Rahul Sasane, a member of the University Student Struggle Action Committee, criticized the move, stating, “It is not appropriate to distribute silver coins when the university is facing financial difficulties, and the students’ issues remain unresolved.” Sasane pointed out that instead of focusing on gifts for employees, the university should address the immediate concerns of its student body.
In defense of the initiative, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi explained that such gestures are not new, citing similar awards given to employees during the university’s previous jubilee celebrations.
However, this explanation has done little to quell concerns from students and faculty alike, as the debate over the university’s financial priorities continues.
