Darbhanga/Patna: The start of classes in 30 newly established degree colleges under Lalit Narayan Mithila University from the new academic session is unlikely to begin on schedule, following a halt in the recruitment of guest teachers.
University officials said the suspension of the appointment process had created uncertainty over operational readiness, affecting thousands of students planning to enrol in the new institutions.
Recruitment pause affects launch timeline
The colleges were set up as part of Bihar government’s effort to expand access to higher education across the region. Infrastructure and administrative preparations were said to be in the final stages, with regular classes originally scheduled to begin from July 1 for the 2026–27 session.
However, since permanent teaching posts have not yet been sanctioned or filled, the university had initiated a large-scale process to appoint guest faculty to ensure academic operations.
That process has now been put on hold following recent directions from Lok Bhavan, university sources said.
Administrative and technical hurdles
Officials familiar with the matter said the delay was linked to administrative and procedural issues, including the absence of a government gazette notification for the colleges.
Financial approvals related to operational expenses and honorariums for temporary staff are also under review.
The university said appointments would resume once it receives formal clearance from the education department.
Students and parents express concern
The uncertainty has raised concern among students, particularly those in rural areas who were expecting the new colleges to provide nearby access to higher education.
Student groups warned that any delay in starting classes could affect admissions and academic timelines.
Some student representatives said they may launch protests if no alternative arrangements are made.
360 guest faculty posts on hold
The university had planned to recruit 360 guest teachers across six subjects for the 30 colleges.
Under the proposal, each college was to have two guest faculty members per subject, amounting to 60 posts per subject across the network.
The colleges are spread across Darbhanga, Madhubani, Samastipur and Begusarai districts.
University hopeful of resolution
University officials said the suspension was temporary and efforts were being made to begin classes at the earliest.
However, they acknowledged that completing the recruitment process and starting academic activities by the 1 July deadline now appeared difficult.
