The state government has sanctioned six new post-matric hostels to meet the growing demand, particularly among students from minority communities. This includes two girls’ hostels in Dakshina Kannada and two hostels—a boys’ and a girls’—in Udupi. Among these, two hostels will begin operations in rented buildings within a month.
Currently, Dakshina Kannada has seven minority hostels. With the addition of six more, the total capacity will increase significantly. Minority welfare department district officer Jinendra Kotian stated that each new hostel will accommodate 100 students, housing a total of 600 inmates. The hostels will be located in Moodbidri, Surathkal, and two each in Konaje and Mangaluru city.
“There is a huge demand for hostels under the minority department, but current facilities are inadequate. All existing hostels reach full occupancy every academic year. The newly sanctioned hostels will help accommodate more students from across the state,” Kotian explained. He added that the first two hostels, one in Mangaluru city and another in Konaje, will be ready in another month. The Konaje hostel will be set up at the existing hostel premises, while the girls’ hostel in Mangaluru will be located in a rented apartment near Jeppu, which has 24 flats, each accommodating 10 students.
“These hostels will have 75% occupancy for minority students, with the remaining spots available for other categories,” Kotian said. He noted that hostels in district headquarters are in higher demand compared to those in taluk headquarters. The government plans to complete construction of the new hostels within a year. Boys’ hostels will have five staff members, while girls’ hostels will have six.