GU Hikes PhD fees, Faces Students’ ire

Gujarat University’s recent decision to increase PhD fees has drawn strong opposition from student representatives. The National Students Union of India (NSUI) has warned of intense protests if the university does not reverse the revised fee structure.

According to NSUI, the university informed candidates that the semester fee for regular PhD students has been raised from Rs.7,900 to Rs.12,400. In addition, a ₹1,000 registration fee will be charged in the first semester. The student body claims that the fee hike has created serious concern among research aspirants.

NSUI representatives stated that the fee has increased by more than Rs.3,000 last year and by Rs.4,500 this time, calling the move unfair and against students’ interests. NSUI leader Vikram Gohil alleged that the sharp increase — amounting to nearly a 57% hike — raises questions about how student funds are being used. He added that the organization will launch strong agitation in the coming days if the decision is not withdrawn.

Meanwhile, Gujarat University Registrar Piyush Patel did not respond to calls seeking the university’s official statement on the matter.