Mangaluru: The long-standing demand for a government engineering college in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district is unlikely to materialise, with the higher education department clarifying that there is no proposal under consideration. The government recently confirmed in a communication that the establishment of a new government-run engineering college in the coastal district is not on the agenda.
Official response in assembly
The issue was raised during the recently concluded state assembly session by MLC Ivan D’Souza, who pressed for a government engineering institution in DK. Responding to his question, the higher education department stated that funds allocated in the state budget are currently being utilised for the development of existing government engineering colleges across Karnataka, leaving no scope for sanctioning a new one in the district.
Officials noted that while the demand from DK is acknowledged, the present policy focuses on strengthening existing institutions rather than opening new ones.
Private dominance in engineering education
According to sources in the higher education department, one of the main reasons for the government’s reluctance is the large number of private engineering colleges already functioning in Dakshina Kannada. The district currently has over a dozen such institutions, collectively producing 7,000 to 8,000 graduates each year.
Additionally, the presence of deemed universities offering engineering programmes has created a situation where private institutions dominate the sector, reducing the perceived need for a government-run college. Officials indicated that this imbalance has become an obstacle to sanctioning a new public institution.
Shift in focus to KPT development
Instead of setting up a government engineering college, the focus has shifted to upgrading the Karnataka Government Polytechnic (KPT) in Mangaluru. Officials confirmed that funds are being channelled towards improving infrastructure at KPT, including library upgrades and renovation of existing facilities.
The move is intended to strengthen polytechnic education in the district while ensuring that resources are effectively used.
Community disappointment
The government’s stance has disappointed several stakeholders in Dakshina Kannada who have long argued that a government engineering college would provide affordable access to higher education, especially for students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds. Critics point out that heavy dependence on private institutions often limits opportunities for meritorious but financially disadvantaged students.
Supporters of the proposal argue that while the district may have numerous private colleges, a government engineering college could set higher academic benchmarks, provide quality education at lower fees, and ensure more equitable access.
Conclusion
For now, Dakshina Kannada’s demand for a government engineering college remains unmet. With the government prioritising the development of existing colleges and polytechnics, the prospect of a new institution in the district appears distant. The debate underscores the challenge of balancing private dominance in higher education with the need for affordable government-run alternatives.