Mangaluru – Mangalore University (MU) is grappling with a serious financial crisis as a growing number of affiliated colleges opt for autonomous status or become deemed universities. This trend has resulted in the university losing out on critical revenue from exam, affiliation, and other administrative fees.
Just a few years ago, MU had 214 affiliated colleges across Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kodagu districts. That number has now plunged to 151, significantly slashing the university’s student base and revenue. In the past two years alone, several major institutions with thousands of students have transitioned to autonomous status, with one even achieving deemed university recognition.
“Earlier, Mangalore University managed about 1.8 lakh students. That number is now down to approximately 75,000, including those in BEd and PG courses,” said H Devendrappa, MU’s registrar (evaluation). “Once a college becomes autonomous, MU only handles the convocation process. All fee collections—previously a major income source—are now retained by the institution itself.”
Further compounding the problem is the recent bifurcation, which saw Kodagu-based colleges move under the newly formed Kodagu University, leading to more revenue loss.
A senior official noted that admissions in government and aided colleges are also on the decline, worsening MU’s financial situation. “The affiliation fee used to fund many of the university’s operations. With fewer colleges, that stream is drying up,” he said.
MU Vice-Chancellor PL Dharma acknowledged the setback, saying the drop in affiliation income has affected internal projects and student welfare initiatives. “We’re taking steps to cut costs and manage resources efficiently to keep the university functional,” he added.