Governor R.S. Gavai, who has made clear his wish to revamp higher education in the state, has interviewed all 43 aspirants for the six posts This is for the first time that a chancellor has taken such interest in university affairs.

But Gavai is determined to have vice-chancellors with the ability to restore discipline in the state’s universities. Hence the grilling sessions.

This time, unlike a list of two to three names, the human resource development de partment had to come up with a comprehensive panel of 43 names.

The panel was prepared on strict parameters, with age, experience in administrative positions, research published in acclaimed journals and other factors given weight.

"We have done everything in a transparent manner in accordance with the guidelines of the UGC and the practice in reputed universities," said HRD Commissioner Dr MM Jha.

For Bihar, where interviews for vice chancellors are unheard of, this is a pleasant surprise. Not surprisingly, there is great curiosity about the nature of questions being asked and the environment at the Raj Bhavan. Candidates who return from the interview, therefore, are subject to a second round of quizzing. Said one, “It was all very informal, with general questions being asked about university affairs and the problem areas.”, Prodded a little, the teacher spelt out the questions: “I was asked about the situation in my university, how things can be improved and the problem of falling attendance in classes arrested” Others have not uttered a single word. But congratulations have started pouring in for some just for attending the interview session. “You see, it is so tough out there. Tougher than the UPSC interview, perhaps?” remarked a retired teacher hoping for a maiden berth.