Presidency University to Inaugurate Alumni-funded Computer Centre in December

Presidency University Alumnus Funds State-of-the-Art Computer Centre to Restore Institutional Glory

Established in 1840, Presidency College, Chennai, is one of India’s oldest government arts colleges. It is renowned for its academic excellence and rich history. The college offers undergraduate and postgraduate arts, commerce, and science programs, continuing to uphold its legacy as a prestigious educational institution.
In a significant gesture, former Bengal advocate-general and alumnus of the erstwhile Presidency College, Anindya Mitra, has donated ₹60 lakh to establish a state-of-the-art computer centre on the university campus. Recognising the growing need for computers for academic activities and placement-related interviews, the new centre will have 25 cutting-edge computers.

Mitra, who graduated in History from Presidency College in 1955, expressed concern over the university’s struggle to maintain the high standards it once upheld as an undergraduate college. Despite being a state-aided institution, the university has faced challenges in retaining the level of academic excellence it was once known for. Reflecting on the past, he noted that Presidency College was once comparable to St. Stephen's College. His contribution aims to restore the institution’s former glory and strengthen its infrastructure. He also welcomed students’ suggestions on what they believe is necessary to improve the university's standards. Presidency College Registrar Debajyoti Konar mentioned that the computer centre will be inaugurated on December 13. Although the university could not provide a larger space, a room accommodating 25 computers has been allocated. The new facility will be named the Presidency Alumni Computer Centre in recognition of Mitra’s generous donation.

In a previous statement made in January 2018 during the inauguration of a museum on the campus, the advocate-general expressed his belief that while a museum was a valuable addition to the university, the institution itself should not become a "museum piece." He emphasised that the university should continue to thrive and regain its former pride. These remarks were made in the presence of then-governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, former vice-chancellor Anuradha Lohia, and other stakeholders. They highlighted his optimism despite the institution’s challenges, particularly its struggle to attract deserving students—a situation unimaginable in its earlier years as a college.

While the institution’s standards continue to decline, he reiterated the importance of not losing hope. He stressed the need for sustained efforts to restore the university to its former stature. In light of the recent National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) assessment in June, which saw Presidency University earn an A for the second time (after its initial A+ rating as a college), Mitra's contribution became even more significant. Bivas Chaudhuri, Vice-President of the Alumni Association, praised Mitra's philanthropic contribution and urged fellow alumni to follow suit. Chaudhuri emphasised that this donation should be an example for others, especially considering the university's current financial constraints. Mitra’s generous contribution to the university highlights his commitment to restoring its former glory. His initiative inspires other alumni to support the institution’s growth and development.

Editor’s Note:

Anindya Mitra’s generous donation to Presidency University marks a significant step towards strengthening the institution's infrastructure and academic standards. His contribution to establishing a state-of-the-art computer center is a testament to his commitment to restoring the university’s former pride and fostering future excellence.

Skoobuzz appreciates Mitra’s kind act which is a powerful example for other alumni to actively contribute to their university’s development, especially in times of financial challenges.