First woman Principal appointed at AU College of Engineering

Professor M. Shashi of the Department of Computer Science has been appointed Principal of Andhra University College of Engineering, becoming the first woman to head the institution.

Vice Chancellor G.P. Rajasekhar handed over the appointment orders on Saturday. “I congratulate Prof. Shashi and wish her success in leading the college,” he said. Registrar K. Rambabu, Deans K. Rajendra Prasad and K. Srinivasa Rao, and faculty members were present.

Prof. Shashi assumed charge later. “It is an honour to serve in this role. I look forward to working with faculty, staff, and students to strengthen academics and research,” she said.

The appointment has sparked discussion in academic circles, with some faculty expressing surprise over the selection. “Promotions and key postings are generally made from the seniority list approved by the Executive Council,” a senior professor said.

Sources said professors senior to Prof. Shashi in the eligibility list include P.V.G.D. Prasada Reddy of Computer Science, Venkata Subbaiah of Mechanical Engineering, G.V.R. Srinivasa Rao of Civil Engineering, and Bhanu Prakash of Marine Engineering. Prof. Prasada Reddy, a former Vice Chancellor, is facing allegations, while others were seen by some as potential candidates.

“The decision has led to discussion within the university,” a faculty member said.