Question

Principal Maheshwari of BINK School of Management is facing a problem that calls for quick action. She received an anonymous mail one day, possibly from one of the students, complaining about outdated syllabi, mediocre teachers and poor choice of courses on offer. Which of the following is the best course of action available to the Principal?

• A. She should invite students to discuss any problem openly, one on one or in small groups, promise to act on them but firmly condemn the culture of anonymous mails.
• B. She should update the students about the efforts the institute is taking in sprucing up the syllabi, hiring talented faculty etc., but make no reference to the letter.
• C. She should convene a meeting of the faculty at the earliest and get them to work on updating the syllabi and also arrange a faculty development program but keep mum about the letter.
• D. She should convene a meeting of the faculty and talk about the letter as a symptom of a deeper malaise, ask them to update the syllabi and also organize a faculty development program.
• E. She should ignore the letter and not think about it at all.

Hint:

In decision-making caselets, the best option is often the one that balances \textbf{openness, accountability, and action} without creating unnecessary panic or ignoring concerns.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the situation
The principal has received an anonymous mail pointing to serious issues: outdated syllabi, weak faculty, and poor course offerings. While the concerns may be genuine, the anonymity makes it difficult to validate the intentions behind the letter. The principal must act wisely to address issues without encouraging anonymous complaints.


Step 2: Evaluating the options
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Option A: This is a balanced approach. By inviting students for open discussions, the principal creates a culture of transparency and accountability. At the same time, condemning anonymity discourages misuse. This also ensures genuine student grievances are heard.
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Option B: Updating students without referencing the letter seems evasive. Students may feel ignored if their concerns are not directly acknowledged.
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Option C: Acting internally without involving students overlooks the student concerns directly expressed. This fails to address the student-principal trust gap.
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Option D: Talking openly about the anonymous letter may create panic and distrust within the faculty. This could worsen the problem rather than solving it.
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Option E: Ignoring the letter is the worst choice, as it dismisses the possibility of genuine issues.


Step 3: Conclusion
The best approach is

Option A, as it opens constructive dialogue with students while discouraging a culture of anonymity. This balances accountability with responsiveness.
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