Gujarat : VNSGU Sets a Digital Benchmark as First Paperless University

Surat, Gujarat  — In a landmark move for educational governance in Gujarat, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) in the diamond city of Surat has emerged as the state’s first paperless university, achieving a remarkable 95% digitalization of its administrative and academic processes. With over 15 lakh mark sheets and degree certificates now available on the DigiLocker platform, VNSGU has set a precedent for other universities across India.

What began as a modest digitization initiative in 2016 has now transformed VNSGU into a model of efficient, transparent, and eco-conscious educational administration. From student admissions to salary slips and mark sheet distribution, nearly every operation is now executed through an integrated e-file system and online dashboard.

“This is not just about going digital,” said Dr. Ramesh Gadhvi, Registrar of VNSGU. “It’s about making education administration smarter, faster, and more accessible. The digitization has empowered students and administrators alike. E-audits are now possible. We can track every file — who has it, for how long, and what stage it’s in — all in real time.”

The transformation was implemented in three phases. In the first phase, student admission records and administrative files were digitized. The second phase focused on internal operations, introducing ARP office automation for payroll, attendance, and personnel records. The third and most ambitious phase saw the uploading of more than 15 lakh student documents, including mark sheets and degrees, to DigiLocker — a secure cloud-based government platform.

For the students, the benefits are immediate and far-reaching. “Now I can download my degree from DigiLocker within seconds,” said Bhakti Patel, an alumnus who recently applied for a master’s program abroad. “There’s no need to stand in queues or wait for postal delivery. It’s hassle-free and saves a lot of time.”

Gone are the days when students had to rely on physical copies, Xerox shops, and endless visits to administrative counters. The paperless shift has not only saved time but drastically reduced operational costs. “We no longer have to spend on printing, dispatching, and storing physical files,” added Dr. Gadhvi. “More importantly, pending work has decreased significantly.”

Another major leap has been the flexibility offered to staff. With access to the online dashboard from any internet-enabled device, university employees can now manage tasks from home or while traveling. This “work from anywhere” capability, rare in the public education sector, has proven vital during times of emergency or staff shortages.

Digital transformation has also brought environmental benefits. By cutting down on paper usage and logistics, the university is playing its part in sustainability efforts.

Urban planners and educational policy experts have lauded VNSGU’s progress. “It’s the future of public education administration,” said an education. “If replicated across universities, this model could save crores of rupees and countless man-hours every year.”