Govt college faculty sponsor student fees to boost enrolment
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Udupi: At a time when admissions to the Government First Grade College, Hiriyadka, saw a steady decline, faculty members took it upon themselves to reverse the trend by sponsoring student fees and actively encouraging enrolments.
Initially, the college announced fee waivers for students who scored 70% and above. Now, associate professor of Kannada, Sowmyalatha P, has taken the initiative further by offering to sponsor three years of education for any deserving student, regardless of marks.
In a WhatsApp message that has now gone viral, Sowmyalatha highlighted the growing preference among students for private and paramedical courses, especially nursing and polytechnic, often at the cost of quality yet affordable education available at govt colleges.
"There is a misconception that govt colleges lack facilities or opportunities. Many students are also dropping the idea of higher education altogether.
We want every child to become a graduate. This message is particularly for rural students who have the interest, but face financial barriers. There has been a drastic decline in admissions post Covid-19 pandemic," she said.
The college offers BA, BCom, and BCA courses, and students from distant districts like Vijayapura, Raichur, and Bagalkot have reached out following her message.
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While the college does not have a hostel, Sowmyalatha said BCM hostels can be arranged, and the principal has assured support.
"We have received about 20 BCom applications so far, and a few BA and BCA enquiries too. The annual fees is less than Rs 10,000 per student. This is a small investment compared to the value of education," she said, adding that she decided to sponsor students as she is set to retire in another 18 months.
Principal Prof Jayaprakash Shetty said this is part of a larger effort to make govt colleges more accessible. "Many students are drawn to nursing due to job promises, but several drop out midway and end up working in factories to repay loans. We want them to make informed choices. Our staff, including eight permanent faculty, are committed to strengthening the college," he said.
The college has also partnered with MSDC, Manipal, to introduce skill development programmes, and this academic year, classes are likely to begin 15 days early with a bridge course. Admissions are open till Aug.
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