Gauhati University officials cite outdated systems, staff shortage, and procedural bottlenecks as contributing factors
Gauhati University, one of Assam's most prestigious educational institutions, has been facing criticism from students and alumni over delays in exam results and issuance of important certificates. The problem, which has lingered for years, continues to hinder students’ academic journeys and career aspirations.
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The delays have left many students in limbo, with some still awaiting results from semesters completed over a year ago.
Talking to GPlus, Jain, a current student at the university said, “We are not getting results from Gauhati University said, “It’s been a year now."
Similarly, another student, pursuing BA LLB, talking to GPlus said, “We have not received our 3rd semester results. This is affecting our ability to move forward.”
The issue is not limited to undergraduate students. Alumni too have voiced complaints about administrative inefficiencies. Many reported delays in obtaining certificates and transcripts necessary for higher education or employment.
The Post Graduate Students’ Union (PGSU) of Gauhati University has been vocal about the problem.
Talking to GPlus, a representative from the union said, “This has been a recurring issue for years. It not only hampers students’ careers but also creates confusion as they have to register for the next semester without even receiving results from the previous one.”
The representative pointed to systemic issues, including an outdated university portal and the lack of permanent faculty. “The absence of permanent professors adds to the inefficiency. Even the Controller of Examinations takes a long time to process results. The root causes are clear, but action seems to be lacking,” they added.
Alumni from Gauhati University have echoed similar sentiments. Talking to GPlus, one former student said, “I applied for my degree certificate six months ago, and I still have not received it. The staff doesn’t respond to emails or calls. It feels like no one is accountable.” Another alum mentioned, “The delay in certificates made me miss an important application deadline for a master's programme abroad. It’s frustrating because it’s not just about documents, it is about our future.”
When approached for comment, an official from the Controller of Examinations defended the university's position. “We try our best to process results on time. Gauhati University is one of the largest and most renowned universities in Assam, with over 300 programmes under its wing,” the official explained.
The official acknowledged internal challenges, saying, “There are internal issues we are trying to resolve. With so many colleges affiliated with us, managing such a large volume of examinations and results is a complex task.”
However, students and alumni believe the explanation does not justify the delays. They argue that the problems have been ongoing for years without any tangible solutions.
The delays in examination results and certificate issuance at Gauhati University are more than mere administrative setbacks—they reflect systemic challenges that have long plagued the institution. Students and alumni, who bear the brunt of these inefficiencies, remain sceptical of promises made by the university’s leadership.
“We have heard these assurances before, but nothing changes. We need to see actual results, not just words,” a student from the University told GPlus.
For years, these delays have disrupted academic progress, job opportunities, and higher education prospects for students. Alumni, too, have often found themselves entangled in bureaucratic hassles when requiring certificates for professional or academic purposes. The issue has not only eroded trust but has also tarnished the reputation of one of Assam’s premier educational institutions.
University officials, while acknowledging the problem, have brought up challenges like outdated systems, staff shortages, and procedural bottlenecks as contributing factors. Promises of reforms, including digitization and process streamlining, have been made repeatedly. However, little has been done to instill confidence among the stakeholders that genuine change is underway.
Transparency and accountability are key to resolving these issues. Regular updates on result timelines, clear communication channels, and a grievance redressal mechanism are some immediate steps the university can take to regain trust. However, these measures must be complemented by a long-term strategy for modernization.
Experts believe that investing in robust digital infrastructure is no longer optional but essential for an institution of Gauhati University’s stature. Streamlining administrative processes through technology can significantly reduce delays, minimise human error, and enhance overall efficiency. Similarly, enhancing staff training and ensuring adequate manpower can address operational shortcomings.
However, beyond technical upgrades, there is also a need for a cultural shift within the institution. The administration must adopt a student-centric approach, recognising the real-world implications of their inefficiencies on individuals' careers and lives.
For students and alumni, the time for patience has long passed. Protests and demands for timely action have grown louder, reflecting their desperation and disappointment. Social media platforms are abuzz with grievances, adding to the university’s public relations challenges.
In the words of an alumnus, “The prestige of Gauhati University lies in its ability to produce capable graduates. When the system fails us, it not only hampers our growth but also diminishes the institution’s legacy.”
As Gauhati University faces criticism over delays in examination results and certificates, key questions remain unanswered. Can the administration deliver on its promises of reform and modernisation? Will students and alumni finally see tangible improvements, or will the cycle of frustration continue?
The university’s leadership has acknowledged the challenges, but words alone cannot resolve the systemic issues at hand. The demand for transparency, accountability, and swift action is growing louder. Students, who rely on timely results for their careers and future opportunities, are losing faith, while alumni worry about the institution's legacy and its ability to uphold its reputation as a premier educational center.
The situation raises several questions —does Gauhati University have a concrete plan to address these long-standing problems? Is there a timeline for implementing solutions, or will these issues persist unchecked?
This moment offers the university an opportunity for transformation. By prioritising technological upgrades, streamlining processes, and adopting a student-centric approach, it can rebuild trust and strengthen its position. But will the administration take the necessary steps to ensure its stakeholders are heard and respected?
For now, the answers remain unclear. The path forward demands more than assurances—it requires action. Gauhati University stands at a crossroads, and how it responds will shape its future and its reputation. The question remains: will it rise to the occasion or let another opportunity slip away? Only time will tell.
