Number of permanent faculty in the best universities in the world is low: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

“The number of permanent faculty in the best universities in the world is low. Visiting professors are improving the educational environment there. Why is that not possible here?” Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asked at a review meeting with the Vice-Chancellors of all public universities in the State, chaired by the Governor of Karnataka.

Speaking at the meeting held at Karnataka Higher Education Council on Saturday, he, however, promised that steps would be taken to fill 2,000 posts in degree and technical education colleges. “We will allow filling up of vacant posts in universities this year,” he added.

‘Caste dens’

Mr. Siddaramaiah went on to say that universities are becoming “caste dens” and efforts should be made to bring youth out of this trap. He called upon the V-Cs of the Public Universities to ensure this.

“Universities should introduce students to the developments taking place in the world. A platform should be prepared to make students global citizens. Scientific and rationality should be cultivated beyond caste, creed and religion,” he said.

“Karnataka is at the forefront of higher education in the country. Not just education, but also providing employment opportunities to students is the government’s priority. Therefore, a scheme to adopt about 100 engineering colleges in collaboration with industries is under way. Under the Naipuna Karnataka scheme, industry-based skill training is being provided to 1 lakh students annually,” he said, adding that Vice-Chancellors should ensure that the university curriculum is in line with global standards.

Speaking about the resources of universities, he said, “Universities should not rely solely on government funds but should mobilise resources through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds and alumni networks,” he stated.

Speaking earlier, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot appealed to the Chief Minister to present the forthcoming State Budget in a manner that is more beneficial to the Higher Education sector. The Governor emphasised that universities, having limited internal revenue sources, require special financial care and structured budgetary support.

He particularly stressed the need to permit filling long-pending vacancies in institutions such as Karnataka State Dr. Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University, Karnataka Sanskrit University, Kannada University, Karnataka Janapada University, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar School of Economics University.

Higher Education Minister Dr. M.C. Sudhakar said that along with the financial assistance from the government, universities should strictly follow financial discipline, transparency and accountability. He opined that there is a need to give a new impetus to research activities.