Students of the College of Arts and Crafts, University of Lucknow, held a protest today at the office of the Principal, raising concerns over the lack of basic infrastructure, academic resources, and administrative responsiveness within the college. Following the protest, students submitted a memorandum to the Proctor, stating that the Principal did not meet them during the demonstration.
Students said that the condition of the college has deteriorated significantly and alleged that it does not meet minimum academic requirements expected of an art institution. They pointed to the absence of functional studio spaces, exhibition infrastructure, a computer lab, cameras, life study models, and basic materials such as clay, stands, and watercolours. They also raised concerns about inadequate access to clean toilets and drinking water.
According to the students, the issue extends beyond infrastructure and reflects what they described as a broader lack of accountability and transparency in the institution’s functioning. They stated that repeated attempts to raise these concerns have not resulted in any time-bound or clear administrative response.
Students alleged that the Principal has not engaged with them directly and claimed that their concerns are sometimes addressed through disciplinary channels rather than dialogue. Some students further alleged that they were advised to consider private institutions when raising concerns about facilities, which they criticised as inappropriate.
Students remarked: “If we had the means to afford private institutions, we would not be here. Public universities exist to provide accessible and quality education, especially for students from working-class and marginalized backgrounds.”
A key demand raised by the students is the formation of a Joint Monitoring Committee, which they described as necessary to improve transparency and accountability.
The memorandum states: “Students are direct stakeholders in this institution. The continued exclusion of students from oversight and decision-making has resulted in a breakdown of accountability and trust. A Joint Monitoring Committee with elected student representatives is essential to ensure transparency and effective implementation of decisions.”
Students also raised concerns regarding the collection of lab fees despite the alleged absence of corresponding facilities, calling it an unjust financial burden.
They have demanded a time-bound response from the administration and stated that they may escalate their protest if their concerns are not addressed.