The recent decision by the Karnataka government to approve the release of ₹35 crore to the University of Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE) in Bengaluru has brought a sigh of relief to the student community. The allocation of funds will provide much-needed support to the institution that has been facing financial constraints in recent times.
The move to extend the status quo of UVCE’s academic and administrative arrangement with the Bangalore University for another year has been welcomed by stakeholders in the education sector. This decision will allow the institution to maintain its autonomy while continuing to benefit from the resources and expertise of the Bangalore University. UVCE has a rich legacy of producing some of the finest engineers in the country. The institution has played a significant role in shaping the careers of many successful professionals over the years. With the government’s support, UVCE is poised to continue its tradition of excellence in engineering education and research.
The recent decision by the Karnataka government to release ₹35 crore to the University of Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE) in Bengaluru has brought a sigh of relief to the students, faculty and staff of the institution. The grant of funds will enable the institution to continue its operations and undertake development activities.
Despite granting autonomous status to the UVCE, the government had not provided adequate funds to support its operations. The institution requires a capital and operational expenditure of around ₹47.69 crore per annum. The Board of Governors (BoG) of the institution had submitted a proposal to the government seeking around ₹50 crore for the next academic year, but the government announced a grant of only ₹22.4 crore in the Budget, which was insufficient to cover the expenses.
As a result of the financial constraints, 69 teaching staff had submitted a proposal to the government opting for Bangalore University instead of UVCE. This move had drawn criticism from various quarters, with students protesting against the government while teaching and non-teaching staff warning of an indefinite strike. The UVCE Teachers’ Association had written to Bangalore University seeking to maintain the status quo for one more year till March 31, 2023. However, the university had rejected the appeal, which had further worsened the situation.
Finally, on April 3, the Finance Department gave approval to release ₹35 crore for the operations of UVCE. This decision was welcomed by the UVCE community, and the Joint Secretary for the Higher Education Department extended the status quo of UVCE with respect to Bangalore University till March 31, 2024.
UVCE principal H.N. Ramesh expressed his gratitude towards the government’s decision to provide adequate funds for the institution and extend its status quo with Bangalore University for one more academic year. He said that the institution could now focus on academics and development without worrying about financial constraints.
For more news click here!
