USTM VC Gauri Dutt Sharma elected president of India’s top social science academy

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 17, 2025

In a significant recognition of academic leadership, Professor Gauri Dutt Sharma, Vice Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), has been elected President of the Indian Social Science Academy (ISSA) for a two-year term (2025–26 and 2026–27).

The ISSA, based in Allahabad and established in 1974, is India’s premier institution for advancing interdisciplinary social science research. Professor Sharma’s appointment marks a milestone not just for USTM but for the broader academic community in Northeast India.

“It is a great honour to serve as President of the National Academy of Social Science,” said Prof. Sharma. “I look forward to collaborating with scholars and institutions nationwide to strengthen research, foster innovation, and promote evidence-based social policy.”

USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque congratulated Sharma on the achievement, calling it a proud moment for the university: “His fortitude and wisdom will be a tremendous asset to ISSA. We wish him continued success in this new role.”

Professor Sharma brings nearly 45 years of distinguished service in higher education to his new role. He has held key positions across India, including Vice Chancellor of Nagaland Central University, Founder VC of Bilaspur and Atal Bihari Vajpayee Universities (Chhattisgarh), and President of the Association of Indian Universities—one of the world’s largest and oldest academic bodies.

His academic journey has taken him across the globe, including academic exchanges in the UK, USA, Canada, China, and Africa. A recipient of the Dr. Narasimhan Medal for best research (1994), he completed a post-doctorate at Sheffield University in the UK and has contributed extensively to tribal and rural education in Northeast and Central India.

Sharma has served with distinction at institutions like NEHU, Mizoram University, NERIST, and Nagaland University, where he has led in roles ranging from department head to dean to vice-chancellor. His tenure has been marked by strong initiatives in research, human resource development, and community outreach.

In 2005, the Ministry of External Affairs deputed him to the University of Rangoon, Myanmar, to boost higher education cooperation. His diplomatic academic engagements in Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar have also helped strengthen India’s regional influence in education.

The ISSA promotes integrated, science-backed solutions to social challenges by connecting the natural and social sciences. It is supported by institutions such as UGC, ICSSR, CSIR, ISRO, and ICMR. Professor Sharma aims to harness this network to promote inclusive innovation and social transformation.

Known for his integrity, compassion, and academic excellence, Professor Sharma regularly delivers public lectures on peace, human values, and national development. His new role at ISSA positions him at the forefront of shaping India’s social science discourse.