Concern over lack of language majors in new government arts and science colleges
Faculty associations have raised concerns over the absence of majors in Tamil and English at the newly launched government arts and sciences colleges in the State.
Based on representations from the public, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Friday ordered the establishment of State-run arts and science colleges in four more districts, in addition to the recently inaugurated colleges at 11 locations.
'The opening of new colleges, especially in remote villages, is to be appreciated, as it will enable students from economically weaker sections and rural areas to pursue higher education. However, it is surprising that there is no provision for teaching Tamil or English as major subjects. Proficiency in these languages is essential for competitive civil services exams and job-oriented courses,' V. Thangaraj, president, Tamil Nadu All Government UGC-qualified Guest Lecturers Association, told The Hindu.
At present, the syllabi of the 11 colleges established in Cheyyur, Chengalpattu district, Alandur (Chennai), Panruti (Cuddalore), Natham (Dindigul), Kolakkanatham (Perambalur), Manamadurai (Sivaganga), Thiruvidaimaruthur (Thanjavur), Coonoor (Nilgiris), Ottapidaram (Thoothukudi), Muthupettai (Tiruvarur) and Vikravandi (Villupuram) each offer five courses.
The subjects covered include Political Science, History, Commerce, Computer Science, Zoology, and Business Management, among others. The courses will be taught through English and Tamil medium of instruction.
'Instead of deputing current faculty to the new institutions, we hope the authorities will create permanent postings in them. We already have over 4,000 regular vacancies in the existing government colleges, that have to be filled up,' said P. David Livingstone, State president of Tamil Nadu Government Collegiate Teachers' Association.
Sources at the Government Arts and Science College, Kolakkanatham, which was inaugurated on May 26, said that courses could be expanded in future based on students' requirements.
'B.A. Tamil is preferred by differently abled and rural candidates, as it helps them to prepare for government and teaching jobs. We also need courses in Geology and Geography, as many businesses based in these sectors operate in Kolakkanatham, and students may benefit from getting in-depth exposure to these subjects,' said a college faculty member.
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