Mangalore University is laying the groundwork to transfer its constituent college, located on the Mangalagangothri campus in Konaje, to government control. This strategic move aims to alleviate concerns of local residents, many of whom depend on this institution for higher education, fearing they might otherwise have to travel far or enroll in costly private colleges.
Established in 2016 by then-vice-chancellor K Byrappa, the University First Grade College in Konaje, Ullal, primarily serves students from nearby areas and underprivileged backgrounds who would otherwise need to commute to the city for education. The college also attracts international students from various countries.
In a recent syndicate meeting, Mangalore University officials resolved to request the government to take over the college. Vice Chancellor PL Dharma told TOI, “The University Syndicate has decided to request the State Government to take over the college. The proceedings of the meetings will be sent to the government soon.” Dharma also emphasized that there was no intention to close the college, countering rumors to that effect. He noted, “With (Karnataka Legislative Assembly) Speaker UT Khader and the government advising us not to close the college, the transfer will free the university from allegations of operating without approved statutes.”
The college, currently home to 280 students with 25 teaching faculty and three office staff, has been facing financial constraints. It relies solely on the university’s internal resources, which have dried up, to cover its annual expenses of approximately Rs 1 crore, while revenue from student fees is only around Rs 10 lakh.
Residents from six local panchayats, whose wards attend the college, submitted a memorandum to the vice-chancellor after rumors spread about the college’s potential closure. The transfer to government control is seen as a crucial step in securing the college’s future and ensuring continued access to education for local students.
