The 114-year-old Loreto College has applied for autonomous status through the University Grants Commission, with its request currently under consideration by University of Calcutta. The institution aims to gain greater academic flexibility by designing its own curriculum and launching new programmes that reflect present-day educational and professional demands.

Sister A. Nirmala, who oversees the college, has emphasised that autonomy is crucial for retaining talented students who often leave Kolkata to pursue studies elsewhere. She believes that updating course structures and introducing innovative subjects would make the institution more attractive and better aligned with students’ expectations. Greater independence would also allow the college to modify syllabi, add emerging disciplines, streamline result publication, and draw applicants from beyond the city.

The proposal was discussed at a syndicate meeting of the University of Calcutta at its College Street campus. Vice-Chancellor Ashutosh Ghosh expressed support for the move, noting that autonomy can strengthen an institution’s growth when it has adequate infrastructure and academic capability.

The example of Behala College, which received autonomous status from the UGC last year after directly applying to the commission, was cited as evidence that institutions meeting eligibility standards should not face obstacles in pursuing independence.

Planned Academic Expansion

If granted autonomy, Loreto College intends to broaden its academic portfolio significantly. Proposed additions include undergraduate programmes in commerce and business administration, a law school, and courses in social work, artificial intelligence, computer science, journalism, and communication. The college is also planning postgraduate degrees in geographic information systems and political science.

Before applying, the institution spent around eighteen months evaluating the implications of autonomy. Faculty members visited established autonomous institutions such as Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira and St. Xavier's College to better understand operational frameworks and academic practices.

According to the administration, the college has strengthened its infrastructure in recent years, adding AI-supported smart classrooms, upgraded research laboratories, and comprehensive campus-wide internet access. Faculty members are also undergoing leadership development programmes to prepare for the transition.

Currently, the University of Calcutta does not operate under a credit-based academic system. Autonomous status would enable Loreto to introduce a structured credit framework, continuous internal evaluation, and a more organised academic calendar. It would also provide the freedom to begin admissions independently rather than relying solely on a centralised process.

In West Bengal, institutions such as Swami Vivekananda Centenary College, Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, St. Xavier's College, and Behala College have already secured both high accreditation grades and autonomous status. Loreto College, which received an ‘A’ grade in 2021, meets the eligibility criteria required to apply.

Education officials note that institutions with strong accreditation can seek autonomy, allowing them to develop independent curricula rather than adhere to a uniform university-prescribed syllabus.