Patna University pro-vice-chancellor SI Ahson and (right) former Patna College principal LN Ram at the function on Sunday. Picture by Deepak Kumar

Patna, Jan. 9: The 149th foundation day of Patna College turned out to be a low-key affair today.

Many chose to give the function a miss barring pro-vice-chancellor, S.I. Ahson, a few senior university officials and distinguished alumni of the college.

Among the eminent persons who missed the function were vice-chancellor Shyam Lal, who cited health reasons for not attending the programme, dean of students’ welfare Patna University P.K. Poddar and proctor Sarvendu Kumar.

The function started with hoisting of the college flag by the pro-vice-chancellor, later it was followed by a parade by the NCC members of the college.

Even professors and teachers turned up in less numbers owing to the chilling wintery conditions.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Ahson said: “There should be a collective responsibility from teachers and students to make this institute a centre of excellence. The state government has chosen Patna College and Science College from Patna University for making the institute a centre of excellence. At this junction, there should be a collective effort from both teachers and students. Efforts should be made for an all-round development in all spheres including academic, sports, art and culture.”

Ahson also dig up the issue of deteriorating discipline on the college campus.

He said in recent times, the college has witnessed several incidents of eve-teasing and clashes between students and outsiders and also among students.

Such types of the incidents not only defame the reputation of the college but also hamper the academic atmosphere of the college, Ahson said. However, Ahson lauded the role of principal Lal Keshwar Prasad Singh in checking identity cards and said it should be made compulsory that all students should bring their identity cards regularly.

Former principal of Patna College Snehlata said teachers should play a key role in bridging the gap between students and college/university authorities.

“Teachers should make a habit to remember every student by his or her name as it creates a sense of confidence among students,” said Snehlata.

The speakers present at the function also mooted for reviving the glorious past of the college as it was once considered the best college of the eastern region. The college boosts of having a rich tradition as it has produced many who have made a niche for themselves at the national level as well as at the international level.

The first chief minister of Bihar, Sri Krishna Singh, was a product of the college apart from many leaders and bureaucrats. At present, the state human resource development department principal secretary Anjani Kumar Singh is an alumni of the college along with art and culture secretary Vivek Kumar Singh.