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The initiative to rename Barkatullah University in Bhopal has taken a significant step forward. The Executive Council (EC) of the university has given its approval to rename the institution to "Vagdevi Bhojpal University." This proposal is now set to be sent to the Governor and Chancellor, Mangubhai Patel, for the final nod. During the discussions, it was emphasized that Raja Bhoj represents the rich historical, cultural, and intellectual legacy of the state, which led to the proposal for the university's new name being put forth and subsequently approved by the EC.

In addition to the name change, there are plans to revise the university's academic framework. Traditional disciplines like Arabic and Persian will be restructured and incorporated into a new Department of Comparative Languages and Culture.

**Who was Barkatullah?**

The university's existing name pays tribute to Maulana Barkatullah Bhopali, a notable freedom fighter and revolutionary thinker. Hailing from Bhopal, Barkatullah was instrumental in promoting India's independence movement on a global scale. He was also linked to the Provisional Government of India in Exile, formed in 1915, and is recognized as one of the nation's key revolutionaries.

**What is the Next Step in the Process?**

The renaming of a government university involves more than just an announcement. Initially, the Executive Council must approve the proposal. Following this, it is sent to the Department of Higher Education, the State Government, and ultimately to the Chancellor for approval. If necessary, amendments to the University Act may also be required. The new name will only be officially adopted after all these approvals are secured.