MU Urges State Government to Recognize or Take Over Constituent Colleges

Mangalore University (MU), facing financial difficulties, has appealed to the state government to either take full control of its four unrecognized constituent colleges or grant them statutory approval. These colleges, which include the one on the Mangalagangothri campus in Konaje, Government First College in Bannadka, Moodbidri, University Evening College in Hampankatta, and GFGC in Nelyadi, have not been officially sanctioned by the government but rely on the university’s resources.

The situation has become critical following MU’s decision to close its constituent college on the Mangalagangothri campus. MU’s vice-chancellor, PL Dharma, explained that the university has repeatedly communicated with the state government after discussing the matter in a syndicate meeting. The establishment of these colleges in rural areas, without the necessary statutory approval, was based on the hope of future government recognition. However, this has not occurred, and the university bears significant financial burdens, such as the annual ₹1 crore salary for guest faculty at the Konaje campus. The Nelyadi campus operates in a rented building, exacerbating financial strains.

Guest faculty in these colleges have not received salaries for four months, and the potential closure of these colleges would disrupt the education of numerous students. Despite the lack of government recognition and the reliance on guest faculty, the colleges were founded to provide higher education to rural and underprivileged students. After a request from Speaker UT Khader, the college in Konaje will continue its admissions process this academic year. However, the Bannadka college’s anticipated statutory approval remains delayed.