JNU Transitions from 'Vice-Chancellor' to 'Kulguru' in Academic Certificates

JNU's Decision to Adopt Gender-Neutral Terminology

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has made a significant change by replacing the term 'Vice-Chancellor' with 'Kulguru' on all degree certificates and academic records. This decision was reached during a meeting of the university's executive council held in April. The agenda of the meeting included a proposal to modify the designation on degree certificates and other academic documents, which will be implemented under the direction of the examination controller.

Aim for Gender-Neutral Language

The primary goal of this change is to promote a more gender-neutral title for the position of Vice-Chancellor. This initiative aligns with similar changes already adopted by the governments of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. In February 2025, Rajasthan passed an amendment to replace the titles of Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Vice-Chancellor with Kulguru and Pratikulguru, which received approval in March. Madhya Pradesh followed suit in July 2024. Nitish Kumar, the president of JNUSU, emphasized that the university should also consider making toilets and hostels gender-neutral.

Further Demands for Gender Equality

In addition to changing the title from Vice-Chancellor to Kulguru, there are calls for the establishment of gender-neutral toilets and hostels. Furthermore, there is a demand for the reinstatement of the JNU Entrance Examination (JNUEE) for PhD admissions and the return of the deprivation points system. A leftist leader expressed on social media the need to move beyond symbolic gestures and work towards tangible gender justice.