The Patna University administration is confused about holding its convocation this year.

The varsity has fixed November 26 as the convocation date. Raj Bhavan has given its consent but chancellor D.Y. Patil is unlikely to attend it. Patna University (PU) vice-chancellor (VC) Arun Kumar Sinha said: “The varsity has fixed November 26 for holding the convocation. We have received consent from the chancellor’s office, but Governor D.Y. Patil has not yet consented to participate in the convocation.” As the governor is the university’s chancellor, PU has again sought his consent vis-à-vis attendance.

In case the governor decides against attending, the event can take place if the governor asks the VC to officiate as master of ceremony in his place.

The last time PU hosted a convocation in March 2011, former Jammu & Kashmir Governor Lieutenant General S.K. Sinha and then chancellor of universities in Bihar, Devanand Konwar, were chief guests.

Even university students are confused about the convocation date. Jayshree, a postgraduate in history, said: “We have heard about convocation on November 26, but there has been no formal announcement or notice regarding the date.”

Rakesh Kumar, a postgraduate in ancient Indian history and archaeology, said: “We don’t know if we have to apply for attending the convocation. Till now the varsity has not issued any notification on students and batches eligible to attend.” As the varsity has not hosted a convocation in two years, students don’t know which batch (2011 or 2012) will receive degrees. Those who passed out in 2009 and 2010 received their degrees in 2011.

A varsity syndicate member said on condition of anonymity: “Even if the varsity plans to hold convocation on November 26, after Governor D.Y. Patil’s consent, making arrangements would be a Herculean task.” (see box).

Foundation day

Patna Science College is going to celebrate its 86th foundation day function at its campus on Friday. For the first time, the college would felicitate 10 toppers, one each from seven regular (traditional) courses and three vocational courses.