Mangalore University is preparing to transfer its constituent college, located on the Mangalagangothri campus in Konaje, to government control. This move aims to address concerns of local residents who rely on the institution for education and feared having to travel far or enroll in expensive private colleges.
Established in 2016 by then vice-chancellor K Byrappa, the University First Grade College in Konaje, Ullal, serves students from nearby areas and underprivileged backgrounds, and also attracts international students. At a recent syndicate meeting, Mangalore University officials resolved to request the government to take over the college.
Vice-chancellor PL Dharma stated, “The university syndicate has decided to request the state government to take over the college. The proceedings of the meetings will be sent to the government soon.” He emphasized that there was no intention to close the college and acknowledged the financial constraints the university faces in running the college with its internal resources, which have been depleted.
Currently, the college has 280 students, 25 teaching faculty, and three office staff. Residents from six local panchayats submitted a memorandum to the vice-chancellor after rumors spread about the college’s closure. The college’s annual expenses amount to approximately Rs 1 crore, while revenue from student fees is only around Rs 10 lakh.