Speaking on the topic “Towards a New Horizon” at Kennedy Hall he said that the dream of Sir Syed will be realized and the Aligarh Movement will be revived by establishment of these centres.

Prof. Azis clarified that efforts of establishing special centres were began even before him and he has only speeded up the process so that the backward Muslims of these regions may avail opportunities of higher education, he added.

He said that establishment of the special centres is a historical decision and that will have far reaching consequences. When in 2020 the AMU will be celebrating its centenary celebrations, these centres will become independent universities serving the community and the nation at large.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Azis said these centres will provide an opportunity for knowledge revolution and extend immense benefits to the backward classes particularly Muslims.

He also made it clear that establishment of special centres is entirely in accordance with the provisions of the Act and are legal. President of India in her capacity as the Visitor has already accorded approval to centres and the Central Government has allocated specific grant in its budget for the first time for these centres. He said that all those people who are opposing these centres may get clarification directly from him or the Registrar on this issue.

University Registrar Prof. VK Abdul Jaleel threw light on the achievements of three years and said, “retired employees have been provided health services, 250 daily wagers have been absorbed on regular basis, 38 daily wage employees have been appointed as clerks, Directorate of Schools has been established, 434 teachers and 117 non-teaching employees have been promoted through selection committees”.

He further stated that Memorandum of Understanding have been signed by 22 premier universities of the world and transparency has been brought in implementation of Right to Information Act.

Finance Officer, Yasmeen Jalal Baig elaborated on finance, accounts, property and Waqfs and said that the University has received no audit para in the audit report.

She further added that the efficiency and transparency in financial management has inducted by observing the MHRD and UGC rules strictly. While speaking on the University properties she said that the boundary wall was constructed in campus to ward off encroachers. She said that to enhance security in campus CCTV cameras were installed. Yasmeen also informed that by taking legal recourse the University was able to secure Shahjahan Manzil and Raza Lodge and arrangements were made to safeguard Waqf property.

Controller of Admissions and Examinations, Prof. Pervez Mustajab gave details of admissions and told that in year 2008, new admission test centres were established which revived University’s All India character. He also elaborated on future planning in respect of admission tests and focused on the transparency centric initiative implemented in both admissions and examinations in the University.

OSD (Development), Prof. Akhtar Haseeb said that in all departments and residential halls overall 500 computers have been made available. Saudi Arabian government extended special help of thirty thousand dollars for preservation of rare manuscripts. He also said that 143 new projects have been approved making the University a true research hub.

DSW, Prof. Ainul Haq Khan while detailing about residential halls of residence said that waiting list has been almost exhausted and much better facilities are being provided in hostels. With the constitution of Central Allotment Committee the problem of unauthorized occupancy in residential halls was brought to a naught.

Principal of JN Medical College, Prof. Ashraf Malik said that patients from neighboring areas are being provided better health services and the services are being further improved through special grant of Rs.150 Crore under Prime Minister’s Health Security Scheme. The up-gradation initiative will place JNMC on par with AIIMS.

Principal of Zakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Ekram Husain pointed out that the college has received special grant of Rs.9 Crores on the basis of report of Joshi Committee for upgrading it to the level of IIT. He also told that 92% students have been provided employment. A detailed project of Rs. 400 Crores has been sent to MHRD.

Earlier, Dean, Faculty of Theology Prof. Saud Alam Qasmi said that the achievements obtained by the institution in three years are laudable. Information Technology has been developed, Library has got new direction, hostels have been constructed and large number of students have been selected in IIT.

He said that in 21st Century we have to remove illiteracy by spreading message and mission of Sir Syed in each home and that is possible only when all people cooperate in this task.

Chairman of Mass Communication Department and Media Advisor, Prof. NAK Durrani while expressing thanks urged for extending cooperation in constructive endeavours of the University so that in coming two years the institution may further progress.

Dr. Shakeel Samdani, Coordinator, General Education Centre conducted the programme.