Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jul 12: "Everyone wants a doctorate from Mangaluru University, but no one is addressing the university's survival. If a senate member attends a meeting, they receive an honorary amount of Rs 8,000 and Rs 15,000 as travel expenses, yet the government lacks funds to run the university," said DYFI district president B K Imtiyaz. He announced a Janagraha Dharani protest to be held from 10 am to 5 pm in front of Konaje Mangalore University on July 15.

Speaking at a press conference at the Ullal press club, Imtiyaz highlighted the precarious state of Mangaluru University, established for the children of poor daily wage labourers, now on the verge of closure due to lack of funds. "The state government should take over and manage the four colleges run by Mangaluru University. Bannadka, Nelyadi, the evening college, and other university colleges are facing closure. The government's grant is insufficient, staff layoffs are in progress, and the university is being weakened by the influence of private universities," he said.

Imtiyaz emphasized the plight of children from financially poor families who cannot afford private college fees. "Degree colleges that support these students should not close. The state government should take over their management and ensure they are run effectively," he added. He criticized the expenditure on presenting doctorate degrees and the high travel allowances for senate members, contrasting this with the lack of funds to run university colleges.

Nazeer Ullal of Janata Parivar echoed these concerns, likening Mangaluru University's situation to "darkness below the lamp." He called for an investigation into land encroachment and scams involving the university's 360 acres. "Evening colleges, a lifeline for working students, are being closed. The government should take over these degree colleges and ensure their continued operation," he said.

Krishnappa Salian, secretary of Pranta Raita Sangha, noted the absence of government colleges in the region, except for Mudipu. "There is a demand for government ITI and colleges based on the population. Existing colleges should be retained, and Mangaluru University should be saved from closure," he stated. He urged students to participate in the protest in large numbers.

Rizwan Harekala, convener of the protest committee, was also present at the press conference.