Prof. Surabhi Bharati has become the acting Vice-Chancellor of English and Foreign Languages University in Hyderabad. She took over from Prof. Suresh Kumar, who stepped down for personal reasons after a directive from the Union Ministry of Education. Prof. Bharati will hold the position until a permanent Vice-Chancellor is appointed or until further notice.
During his time as Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kumar led the university in achieving various academic milestones. The university’s social responsibility program made significant contributions, such as creating the English Pro mobile app for learning English pronunciation in an Indian way, providing Open Language Learning Resources in five foreign languages, and teaching English and foreign languages to rural children from low-income groups at a local school. The university also produced and broadcasted Covid awareness jingles in Indian and foreign languages on FM Radio during the pandemic.
Under Prof. Kumar’s leadership, the Research Acceleration Centre facilitated collaboration between different departments and schools within the university and other local and national institutions. He also introduced student-centric initiatives like the Music Club, English Club, Finishing School, Placement and Career Counselling Centre, which helped shape the careers of many students.
In terms of infrastructure, major developments included the Multipurpose Indoor Sports Complex, Open Amphitheatre, separate gymnasia for men and women, lifts in hostels, and solar panels on rooftops. These projects enhanced the university’s facilities and provided a better environment for students and staff.
The university community bid farewell to Prof. Kumar and expressed their gratitude for his contributions to the institution.
