Savitribai Phule Pune University’s NIRF Ranking Decline: Patil Advises University to Improve Image
Pune, 30th September 2025: The recent decline of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) has sparked discussions among educationists and policymakers. While experts attribute the drop to the vacancies of professors, Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil on Monday pointed to the university’s image as a contributing factor, urging SPPU to enhance its public perception.
Patil spoke at the 126th convocation ceremony of the university on Monday, attended by NAAC Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Vice Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi, Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Parag Kalkar, Registrar Dr. Jyoti Bhakere, and Director of the Examination and Evaluation Board Dr. Prabhakar Desai. Degree certificates and gold medals were awarded to students during the event.
Image, Social Media, and Rankings
“The university’s global ranking has improved, but the national ranking has declined,” Patil said. “Evaluation criteria differ between global and national rankings. Social media rarely acknowledges improvements, but immediately criticizes any decline. While we know our shortcomings, the image of the university is an important factor in rankings.”
Patil admitted that the university faces faculty shortages and financial and regulatory constraints. “It has been a year and a half since the recruitment of 111 professors was approved, but regulatory hurdles remain. Financial issues regarding professor recruitment in colleges also persist. Once these are resolved, the situation will improve within a month,” he said.
Advice on Student Protests and Global Reputation
The minister also addressed student protests, emphasizing the importance of measured agitations. “I am not against students, questions, or agitations. But the university must consider whether issues can be resolved through coordination. Continuous protests affect the university’s image and can deter students from across the country and abroad,” he said.
Patil highlighted efforts to attract international students and improve educational quality. “This year, we appointed an organization to facilitate students from abroad, and the results have been encouraging. Alongside recruitment of professors and provision of funds, the university must work to enhance educational standards and maintain a positive image,” he added.
Dr. Gosavi reviewed the university’s progress and performance during the ceremony, with Patil assuring support in funding, professor recruitment, and corporate social responsibility initiatives to help improve the institution’s standing.
