College heads have called on Calcutta University to increase the number of teaching days per semester, warning that the current academic schedule leaves students insufficiently prepared for examinations.

According to them, students are currently receiving only about 40 to 45 days of classes each semester due to frequent and unplanned interruptions. They recommend extending teaching time to at least three months per semester.

To address the issue, the principals have proposed a formal academic calendar that guarantees a minimum of 90 instructional days in each semester. They also suggested that new semesters should begin within a week after the previous semester’s exams conclude.

The matter was discussed during a recent online meeting with university officials, including the inspector of colleges and the undergraduate council secretary. College leaders noted that university authorities had earlier indicated the need to reduce holidays and increase teaching days.

The urgency of the issue became clear earlier this year when third-semester exams were postponed after students protested over incomplete syllabi, which they attributed to inadequate classroom instruction.

The university administration has stated that the proposal will be reviewed at an upcoming syndicate meeting, where further decisions will be made.

Under the proposed schedule, the first semester could run from early July to late December, offering over 100 teaching days after accounting for holidays. The second semester may extend from mid-January to mid-May, with more than 90 teaching days. Plans for other semesters have also been outlined.

Principals also pointed out that theory classes are often disrupted by practical examinations. To improve efficiency, they have suggested integrating the schedules of theory and practical classes.

Additionally, there have been discussions about reducing the duration of major holiday breaks, including the Puja vacation, which currently lasts around four weeks, to create more time for academic activities.