AMU Academic Council fixes 20% cap on fee hike for existing students amid protests

ALIGARH: The Academic Council of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) on Thursday decided to limit the fee hikes to a maximum of 20 per cent for existing students, amid protests on campus over the issue.

According to an official release, the council held a special online meeting chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Naima Khatoon to review an earlier decision to raise fees for both new admissions and existing students.

AMU spokesperson Omar Peerzada said the council unanimously approved recommendations ensuring that the revised fee structure for existing students would not exceed 20 per cent over the previous session’s rates.

“The increase will be implemented in phases to reduce the immediate financial burden,” he added.

The council also recommended special support measures, including instalment facilities and concessions for students from economically weaker sections, to be managed by the Dean Students’ Welfare office.

To offset financial pressures, the university will explore alternative revenue sources such as alumni contributions, sponsored research projects, weekend use of infrastructure for national-level exams, and optimal use of campus facilities for training programmes.

The vice chancellor’s office also issued a memo stating that a Disciplinary Committee meeting will soon be convened on students’ request and confirmed that AMU Students’ Union elections would be held at an appropriate time in accordance with Lyngdoh Committee guidelines.