How is the at Central University of Rajasthan?

The program at Central University of Rajasthan (CURAJ) is a topic of concern among prospective students due to various factors such as high fees with limited returns, issues related to new program establishment and administrative challenges. Despite the university's aspirations, several critical issues have come to light affecting the overall experience and outcomes for students.

High Fees with Zero Return on Investment

The BTech program at CURAJ has an annual fee of approximately 1.2 lakh (Rs. 1.2 lakhs or approximately $1,500 USD as of current exchange rates), which is substantial for many students and parents. However, the primary concern lies in the lack of guaranteed returns on this significant investment. As a newly introduced course, the BTech program currently has no established placement record, making it difficult for students to justify the high fees.

New University and Course

Given that the BTech course is being newly started, it may lack experienced faculty, established curriculum, and industry connections, which are crucial for technical education. Additionally, as a new program in a relatively young university, the course may not yet have the credibility or recognition that other more established programs at different universities might offer. This lack of experience and recognition can lead to doubts among students and parents about the quality of the education provided.

Administrative and Regulatory Issues

The administration and rules at CURAJ have been described as oppressive and unhelpful, creating a stressful environment for , and administrative staff. Faculty and students often report that the Head of Department (HOD) and staff do not support in resolving student concerns, leading to a lack of responsiveness and help. Furthermore, students frequently face unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, which can impact their academic progress and mental well-being.

Misleading Placement Information

During counseling, the university may present misleading information about placements, showing pamphlets that claim certain companies recruit from the campus, which may not be the reality. This can lead to unmet expectations and frustration among students. The actual placement opportunities and statistics often do not align with what is presented to prospective students, further contributing to a lack of transparency in this area.

Hostel Facilities and Policies

The university reportedly does not have enough hostel facilities for all students, leading to issues with allocated rooms. For older students, hostel rooms are allocated based on the Semester Performance Grade Average (SPGA), which is considered an unfair policy. This can result in senior students, including those in their 3rd and 4th years, being placed in overcrowded rooms with up to 6-8 occupants. There are also rumors of corruption, with some students alleging that hostel rooms are sometimes allocated through unofficial channels, requiring students to pay bribes ranging from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3000 (approximately $25 to $35).

Counseling and Support Services

The university environment combined with the lack of support can lead to increased stress and depression among students. Although mental health resources may be available, they often fall short in addressing the needs of the student population. This can have long-term effects on students' academic and personal well-being.

General Advice

Given the issues at CURAJ, it may be advisable for students to consider private colleges that offer a strong track record in placements, experienced faculty, and better student support services. Future prospects for students should be carefully evaluated in terms of education quality, support services, and placement opportunities when choosing a university. A well-rounded analysis of these factors will help students make informed decisions about their educational future.