Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), Mumbai's oldest engineering institution, is planning to elevate its status to that of a university. This move follows the recent upgrade of JJ School of Art to a de-novo-recognised university.
A faculty committee is currently preparing an official proposal. This initiative has received approval from the state administration. If successful, VJTI will be the third university in Maharashtra and the second technical institution in Mumbai to achieve this status.
VJTI is currently studying various university models to find the best fit for its students. The type of university—private or state—is still under discussion. The drafting committee involves people from all departments.
The transformation presents some challenges for VJTI. The institute has a polytechnic division that offers diploma programmes in engineering. The institute is seeking advice from IIT-B and an educational specialist to navigate these challenges.
The proposal for university status gained momentum after Anand Deshpande joined the Board of Governance and Sachin Kore was appointed as the institute's head. A proposal writing panel was established a few months ago.
In contrast to traditional university systems, diplomas obtained beyond Class 10 are usually excluded. The institute is researching the adjustments to provide both degree and certificate programmes.
VJTI, established in 1887, offers certificate, degree, and postgraduate programmes in twelve engineering specialties. The institute hopes that the university status will bring more funds, visibility, and independence. This move aligns with the state's plans to create smaller institutions to ease the pressure on existing public universities and apply the curriculum in line with the National Education Policy.
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