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Karnataka CM directs distribution of laptops to SC/ST university students

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Shillong, August 21: Karnataka’s Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, has given instructions for the distribution of laptops to students belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in universities operating under SCSP/T.S.P. This directive was issued during a meeting attended by Vice Chancellors of state government-affiliated universities and senior officials from the higher education department.

As per IANS, Siddaramaiah, communicating with P. Manivannan, Principal Secretary of the Social Welfare Department, via telephone during the meeting, mandated the allocation of Rs. 230 crore for this initiative. The Chief Minister emphasized that laptops should be provided to students from all communities within the universities. Implementation of this decision is set to take place in the upcoming days.

Amid this, concerns regarding the operational state of universities have been raised. With more than half of the sanctioned posts in universities being vacant, out of a total of 1,882 positions, a substantial gap exists. A critical issue highlighted to the Chief Minister involves the compensation of 2,865 guest lecturers, whose salaries are currently sourced from university funds, causing a financial strain.

Additionally, a noteworthy aspect is the distribution of pensions, only practiced by older universities, leading to an increased fiscal burden on these institutions. Despite a budget allocation of Rs. 5,470 crore in the present budget, a shortfall of Rs. 2,474 crore persists within the higher education sector, as explained by officials.

Siddaramaiah expressed skepticism regarding the establishment of new universities given the decreasing budget allocation coupled with rising recurring costs. He posed a question on the quality of education under such circumstances. Furthermore, within the higher education department’s budget, a substantial 88% of the grant is channeled toward salaries.

In light of this, the Chief Minister recommended that Visvesvaraya Technical University adapt its curriculum to align with industry demands and prioritize flexible education approaches, aiming to enhance employment prospects for engineering graduates.

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