Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Mar 26: Mangalore University’s academic council has decided to make it mandatory for only postgraduates in political science or law to teach Constitution-related subjects in undergraduate colleges under its jurisdiction from the next academic year.
The decision was taken during an online meeting of the academic council on Tuesday, chaired by vice chancellor Prof P L Dharma. Former acting vice chancellor Prof Jayaraj Amin proposed the measure, pointing out that in colleges without political science lecturers, faculty from other disciplines have been teaching Constitution-related subjects, which he termed a violation of regulations.
Responding to the concerns, the vice chancellor stated that of the 150 undergraduate colleges affiliated with the university, only eight have political science lecturers, with two having moved to deemed universities, leaving only six. Given this situation, it has come to light that teachers from other disciplines are conducting Constitution classes. "Only those with expertise in the subject should teach it. A notice will be sent to colleges soon," he said.
PhD holders allowed to pursue further studies
The university has decided to permit foreign students to pursue postdoctoral studies at Mangalore University, provided it does not impose any financial burden on the institution. It was also decided that other international students may study at their own expense, with the final decision on the matter to be taken by the technical committee.
Demand for Kundapur Kannada study chair
A request has been made to establish a Kannada study chair in Kundapur. A proposal has been put forth to allocate funds for this initiative. The meeting was attended by registrar (administration) Raju Mogaveer, registrar (evaluation) Devendrappa, and finance officer Prof Sangappa.
Ranks for NEP students
In the 2021-22 academic year, students who completed undergraduate programs under the National Education Policy (NEP) were awarded grades instead of ranks. However, as the Standard Education Policy (SEP) has now been introduced, ranks need to be declared. A committee was formed to formulate guidelines, and it was decided that students who secured an 'A' grade or higher under the NEP will be awarded ranks.
Establishment of ‘Heartfulness Chair’ at university
The Sahaj Marg Spirituality Foundation, Mysuru, has proposed setting up a ‘Heartfulness Chair’ at the university to promote meditation and universal love. The foundation has pledged a deposit of Rs 25 lakh for this purpose. Similar chairs have already been established at six other universities in Karnataka. As the initiative does not impose any financial burden on the university, vice chancellor Prof P L Dharma expressed support for the proposal.