Mangaluru: Former vice-chancellor of Karnataka Folklore University, K Chinnappa Gowda, cautioned against excessive experimentation in the education sector, urging universities to focus on strengthening existing systems instead. He was delivering the 46th Foundation Day lecture and inaugurating the Teachers’ Day celebrations at Mangalore University on Wednesday.

‘Strengthen the system, not constant experiments’

Reflecting on the changes in academia, Gowda observed that while many new systems and methods had been introduced over the years, most failed due to poor implementation.

“Over the years, many new systems and methods have been introduced. However, we often failed to implement them properly. Instead of experimenting, the real focus should be on strengthening the system,” he said.

Gowda stressed that traditions set by Mangalore University’s earlier leadership must be upheld, adding that both teaching faculty and administrative staff should develop constructive models for the future.

Universities must uphold broader responsibilities

Highlighting the cultural and social role of universities, Gowda pointed out that Mangalore University was established to serve the needs of local communities and to contribute to local culture — a mission it has largely achieved.

“Building an institution with multiple dimensions is not an easy task. MU was established to cater to the needs of the local people and to contribute to local culture — a goal it has accomplished,” he noted.

He emphasised that universities carry cultural, moral, and social responsibilities beyond academics, warning that if leadership falters, “the university will reach a standstill.”

He also called on teachers, students, and faculty members to cultivate a sense of shared ownership. “Teachers, students, and other faculty members should share a collective responsibility towards the university and feel that it is their university. Let us all reorient our attention towards it,” he urged.

Achievements in research and innovation

In his presidential address, PL Dharma, vice-chancellor of Mangalore University, lauded the faculty for their contributions to research. During 2024–25, the university’s faculty published 1,191 research papers and secured 15 patents, a significant achievement for the institution.

These accomplishments, he said, underline the university’s dedication to both academic excellence and innovation.

Online services launched

Marking the occasion, Mangalore University also unveiled new digital services to modernise its administrative processes. The university’s Computer Centre has developed an online examination certificate management system.

Through this platform, students can apply for pass certificates, transcripts, duplicate certificates, and other services via an online portal. The system automates application tracking, verification, and approval processes, reducing manual delays while enhancing transparency.

The platform comes equipped with a secure payment gateway, authentication features, and a user-friendly interface for students, while providing administrators with an efficient management dashboard.

Additionally, the university launched an Online PhD Tracking System to assist research scholars in managing their academic journey. The system enables students to submit coursework, research milestones, publications, and progress reports online, ensuring seamless monitoring by supervisors and administrators.

Looking forward

The Foundation Day event reflected both a commitment to tradition and an embrace of digital innovation. While Gowda’s caution underscored the importance of strong, stable academic foundations, the launch of new digital systems demonstrated the university’s readiness to adapt to modern requirements.

Together, the leadership and community of Mangalore University highlighted their shared responsibility in ensuring the institution continues to thrive as a centre of education, culture, and research