SGOU Head of School Recruitment 2026: Apply by Nov

Introduction

Sreenarayanaguru Open University (SGOU), Kollam, has issued an addendum to its recruitment notification RECN/104/2026, inviting applications for the post of Head of School in the School of Communication and Information Science. This is a significant opportunity for experienced academicians and administrators to lead a crucial academic unit focused on cutting-edge domains like computing, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. The appointment will be on a deputation basis. Candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria, age limits, and application procedure. The online application deadline is 5 PM on November 11, 2026, with the hard copy submission due by 5 PM on November 18, 2026. All details are subject to the official notification, which should be consulted for definitive information.

Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

A total of 01 vacancy has been announced for the post of Head of School in the School of Communication and Information Science.

Category-wise vacancy details are not specified in the supplied notification.

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

Candidates must meet the following essential qualifications and experience:

• Academic Qualifications:
  • A Master's degree in Computer and Information Science (including Library Science Programmes) with at least 55% marks, OR for the technical/engineering stream, a First Class M.E. / M.Tech. and B.E. / B.Tech/M.Sc(CS)/M,Sc (IT) in the relevant branch.
  • An eminent scholar holding a Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Computer Science & Engineering, IT, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Library Science, Information & Communication Technology, Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning, Data Science or an allied computing / digital-technologies disciplines, with a strong record of high-quality publications.
• Experience:
  • Twelve years of Teaching experience in aided/govt colleges/university or other recognised higher education institutions.
  • Demonstrated academic leadership and administrative experience (e.g., heading a School, Department, Centre of Excellence).
  • A strong and current research record with publications in reputed journals and conferences.
  • Experience of guiding doctoral and research scholars and securing sponsored research projects.
• Other Conditions:
  • Appointment is on deputation basis from teachers not below the rank of Associate Professor in Govt. Colleges/Aided Colleges/ Universities/ Government Institutions. Associate professors will be considered only in the absence of professors.
  • For technical/engineering programmes, AICTE faculty qualification norms apply in addition to UGC Regulations.
  • Substantial senior-level experience in the IT/technology industry or a reputed R&D organisation may be reckoned towards eligibility as permitted by norms.
  • Candidates must be citizens of India.
  • All qualifications and experience must be from UGC-recognised institutions.
  • Those who obtain degrees from institutions other than State/Central Universities/National Institutes must produce equivalency certificates.
  • Candidates must have a minimum of four years of service remaining in their parent department.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience: Preference will be given to candidates with research strength in emerging areas like AI/ML, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, IoT, digital technologies, a distinguished publication and patent record, success in attracting funded research, experience in building research centres, strong industry engagement, and experience with outcome-based education and digital pedagogy.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The age limit for the post is ordinarily not to exceed 52 years as on 01/01/2026. A relaxation of up to 56 years is applicable for candidates in University Service. Those who have a minimum of four years of service remaining in their parent department are also eligible.

Relaxation for reserved categories will be applicable as per Government rules in force.

Application Fee

Candidates are required to pay a registration fee as follows:

• General Category: Rs. 1500/- (One Thousand Five hundred only)
• SC/ST/DA Candidates: Rs. 750/- (Seven hundred and fifty only)

The fee must be remitted only through online mode as instructed in the submission portal. A copy of the fee receipt must be submitted along with the hard copy of the application.

Salary and Pay Scale

The Pay and Allowance for the post will be regulated as per the Pay and Allowances drawn in their Parent Department, subject to the applicable rules governing deputation, as per UGC Norms.

Selection Process

The selection process is not specified in the supplied notification. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for further details.

Application Procedure

Eligible candidates must follow these steps to apply:

1. Online Application: Submit an online application through the official website of Sreenarayanaguru Open University.
2. Hard Copy Submission: After submitting the online application, take a printout. Attach self-attested true copies of all required certificates and documents (proof of age, qualification, experience, research, community, reservation, and other claims).
3. Postal Address: Send the duly completed hard copy of the application along with all supporting documents to the Office of the Registrar, Sreenarayanaguru Open University, Kureepuzha, Kollam - 691601.

Important Note: Those who have applied in response to the earlier notification must submit a fresh application in response to this notification. Candidates in service must obtain a No Objection Certificate from their employer and enclose it with the hard copy of the application.

Required Documents

Applicants must enclose self-attested true copies of the following documents with the hard copy of their application:

• Proof of age
• Proof of qualification
• Proof of experience
• Proof of research
• Proof of community/reservation claims
• Other relevant documents supporting their claims
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer (for in-service candidates)

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

• Read the Notification Carefully: Ensure you have read and understood the complete addendum notification before applying.
• Check Eligibility Thoroughly: Verify all academic qualifications, experience, and age criteria meticulously.
• Online and Hard Copy Submission: Remember that both online submission and hard copy submission are mandatory. Failure to complete either may lead to rejection.
• Deadline Adherence: Pay close attention to the deadlines for both online and hard copy submissions. Late applications will be summarily rejected.
• NOC for In-Service Candidates: If you are currently employed, ensure you obtain and submit the No Objection Certificate from your employer with the hard copy.
• Re-application: Candidates who applied previously must submit a fresh application for this notification.
• Document Verification: Ensure all submitted documents are self-attested true copies and are clearly legible.

Official Notification and Application Links

FAQs

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the Head of School post at SGOU?
A1: The last date for online submission of the application is November 11, 2026, by 5 PM. The hard copy of the application must reach the University by November 18, 2026, by 5 PM.

Q2: Is this a permanent position?
A2: The notification states that the appointment is on a deputation basis.

Q3: What is the application fee for SC/ST candidates?
A3: The application fee for SC/ST/DA candidates is Rs. 750/-.

Q4: Do I need to send a hard copy of the application?
A4: Yes, after submitting the online application, you must send a hard copy along with all supporting documents to the Registrar's office.