Mangaluru – Academic institutions along Karnataka’s coastal belt are taking meaningful strides toward LGBTQ+ inclusion, embracing diversity with growing awareness and institutional support.
From forming dedicated LGBTQ+ groups to organizing Pride Month events and promoting research, colleges are actively creating more welcoming spaces for queer individuals—both socially and academically.
Dr Bhaskaran Unnikrishnan, Dean of Kasturba Medical College, Mangaluru, acknowledged the shift: “Our campus and student council are LGBTQ-supportive. While representation is currently low, we’re prepared to help form a dedicated group.”
At Roshni Nilaya’s School of Social Work, LGBTQ+ inclusivity is already well-rooted. Professor Sandra Sunitha Lobo noted, “Students can openly express their identity and support others coming out. We do, however, encourage them to be mindful of peers who may be unaware or sensitive about these topics.”
Beyond awareness, institutions are promoting LGBTQ-focused academic research. Dr B Reshmi, Associate Dean at Manipal College of Health Professions, shared that two funded studies are currently underway—addressing healthcare accessibility for LGBTQ+ individuals and evaluating how medical professionals can better approach queer patients.
A postgraduate LGBTQ+ student from a college near Derlakatte shared a personal perspective: “In my seven years here, I’ve seen people grow more accepting. Social media and peer conversations have helped break old stereotypes, especially among the younger generation.”
As inclusion becomes part of campus culture, educational institutions are not just accepting the LGBTQ+ community—they are helping lead the conversation.