While it might be hard to recall the last time you heard Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh speak, it seems he’s finally going to break his silence. But not everyone will have the privilege of his words and voice.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, 83, is all set to return to his teaching profession which he left in 1966 for the job of economic advisor in UN Secretariat, New York. The former PM has agreed to accept Panjab University’s (PU) offer of professorship for Jawaharlal Nehru Chair.

Confirming the development, PU vice-chancellor Prof Arun Kumar Grover told Times of India

“We have worked out the logistics, which was the main problem. He is happy to be able to come here and interact with students. He might deliver lectures during his visit to Chandigarh and the remaining ones through video conferencing.”
b’Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh | Source: Reuters/File’

An alumnus of the same university, Singh completed his Bachelors and Masters in Economics from Panjab University as a topper in 1954. Back from Cambridge after completing his Economic Tripos in 1957, Singh joined the university as a senior lecturer until 1966.

While the former PM won’t be taking up any academic research in the university, the appointment will largely see him interacting with the students and departments to instill inspiration in them.

Besides Singh, noted economist Yoginder K Alagh and Padma Bhushan awardee Ela Bhatt have also agreed to accept the offer of professorship for Dr Manmohan Singh Chair and Mahatama Gandhi Chair respectively, the university informed on Tuesday. 

(With inputs from PTI)

Feature image source: Reuters