The admission process for pre and post-matric hostels managed by the Backward Classes and Welfare Department in Mangaluru has not been finalized, causing difficulties for new applicants. Classes began in June, but officials report that admissions will conclude on July 20 due to software changes, delaying the online process.
The delay has inconvenienced many economically disadvantaged students. Without hostel accommodation, they are forced to seek costly alternatives like paying guest arrangements, which are unaffordable for most. As a result, many students have chosen not to attend colleges in Mangaluru or Dakshina Kannada.
Kavitha, the district officer in charge, explained that there are 77 hostels in the district, including 34 for girls. Of these, 23 are pre-matric and 54 are post-matric, with a total capacity of 8,126 inmates, around 3,500 of whom are girls. Normally, the admission process for new students is completed by the end of June, but the introduction of new software has delayed it by almost a month. Despite receiving sufficient applications, the delay has caused significant inconvenience.
Colleges have reported that the delay has affected admissions, with many students, especially from North Karnataka, returning to their native places. There is a high demand for girls’ hostels, but academic requirements limit availability, prioritizing those who have scored above 90%.