Prospective students aiming to enroll in undergraduate programs at Mangalore University are facing a significant setback as the commencement of the academic year is delayed by four months following the completion of their pre-university (PU) education. This prolonged hiatus has sparked apprehension among colleges, fearing that students might opt to abandon their educational pursuits and pursue employment instead.
Challenges Faced by Government Colleges:
Government colleges, in particular, are grappling with the repercussions of this delay, reminiscent of the previous year’s scenario. Concerns are mounting as students contemplate alternative paths such as ITI, polytechnic, or allied health courses due to the uncertainty surrounding the start of the academic year at Mangalore University.
Impact on Enrollment:
The delay in the commencement of first semester classes, scheduled for August according to sources from MU, disrupts the annual academic calendar and poses challenges for students dependent on government or constituent colleges. Financially capable students may seek admission in autonomous, deemed-to-be universities, or private colleges, which typically commence their academic year in June, exacerbating the enrollment disparity.
Addressing Concerns:
A senior lecturer from a government college emphasizes the need for Mangalore University to address the issue to prevent a decline in admissions post-pandemic, citing the National Education Policy (NEP) as a relevant framework. Meanwhile, a lecturer from a private college notes that the prolonged delay has led many candidates to reconsider their plans for higher education, potentially opting for employment instead.
Mitigating Anxiety:
In response to students’ anxieties during this waiting period, efforts are being made to reassure them of available seats at government colleges, particularly for candidates from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Jayakara Bhandary M, principal of Dr P Dayananda Pai – P Satisha Pai Government First Grade College, underscores the importance of government colleges in providing limited alternatives for students from poor backgrounds pursuing BA or BSc programs.
Absence of Comment:
Unfortunately, PL Dharma, the vice-chancellor of Mangalore University, was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.
