Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Mar 4: Canara College, Jail Road, has been granted autonomous status by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Government of Karnataka for a period of 10 years, from 2025–26 to 2034–35. The autonomy will be implemented from the academic year 2026–27 i.e., June 2026 onwards.
Established in 1973 by the Canara High School Association (CHSA), the college has grown into one of the prominent institutions affiliated with Mangalore University. Over the past five decades, the institution has built a reputation for academic excellence, discipline, and value-based education. It is accredited with an ‘A’ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
Addressing mediapersons, correspondent CA M Jagannath Kamath described the conferment of autonomy as a significant milestone in the institution’s academic journey. He clarified that while the college will gain academic freedom in designing curriculum, conducting examinations, and evaluating students, the degree will continue to be awarded by Mangalore University, with the designation ‘Autonomous College’ clearly mentioned.
Highlighting the key benefits, the management stated that autonomy would enable a faster and more transparent examination and evaluation system, timely declaration of results, introduction of industry-oriented and skill-based curricula, and launch of new courses and certificate programmes. It will also strengthen internship and placement opportunities while ensuring academic flexibility aligned with emerging trends.
The college has decided to implement autonomy from 2026–27 to allow systematic preparation. This includes the formation of statutory bodies such as the Governing Body, Academic Council, and Boards of Studies, establishment of a dedicated Controller of Examinations office, faculty training programmes,and infrastructure enhancement.
The management emphasised that autonomy does not imply independence from regulatory oversight. The institution will continue to function within the framework of UGC, State Government, and University guidelines, maintaining transparency and accountability through its Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and periodic academic audits.
The correspondent added that the move is expected to enhance academic innovation and student employability, positioning the college as a progressive and forward-looking institution in the region.