West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose chaired a conference with vice-chancellors of state universities, focusing on enhancing campus security, student welfare, and implementing higher education reforms. The meeting addressed critical issues and outlined several measures for swift implementation across West Bengal's universities.
A key decision was the introduction of AI-powered surveillance systems, including facial recognition technology, to monitor and record individuals' movements on campuses. This initiative aims to bolster security and address ragging incidents, with periodic reviews to ensure accountability and effectiveness.
The conference also emphasized the welfare of tribal students, proposing the establishment of a school for Scheduled Tribes in every university to provide academic and social support. Additionally, universities are directed to create dedicated helpline numbers for migrant workers, fostering coordination with universities in other states for reciprocal assistance.
Further proposals included launching a state-wide campaign to raise awareness against youth drug addiction and conducting a comprehensive audit of manpower, including sanctioned, filled, and vacant positions. The meeting also advocated for promoting digital transactions across university departments and administration.
In light of unrest at Jadavpur University, a meeting in March 2025 resulted in the decision to establish crisis management cells in universities to monitor and respond to potential campus conflicts. These cells would include dedicated teams, and universities would also focus on making monitoring, counseling, and disciplinary committees fully operational. Additional measures include installing more CCTV cameras, deploying more security personnel, and developing conflict resolution and mediation processes. Mental health support services for students, faculty, and non-teaching staff were also agreed upon, along with mobile apps for emergency updates. There was also discussion of using AI to monitor social media and online forums for potential threats.
In September 2024, Governor Bose held an emergency meeting addressing women's safety on campuses and in society. Discussions involved launching an "Abhaya Campaign" in all universities and establishing "Anti-human trafficking (AHT) clubs" in universities and colleges to empower youth to prevent exploitation and trafficking. The meeting also addressed online exploitation and abuse, with the Governor urging universities to join the mission of ensuring the safety of women and children in West Bengal.
These initiatives reflect a commitment to modernizing university operations, aligning them with national education reforms and addressing evolving social needs.