Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Feb 8: Deputy chief minister (DCM) of Karnataka, Dr Ashwath Narayan, who also happens to be the minister for higher education, sounded a clear warning to vice chancellors (VC) and registrars by saying that they would be held accountable if they permit colleges and courses to be opened without having basic infrastructure in place.

Speaking at the educational and administrative training programme held for the syndicate members of all the universities in the state on Friday February 7 at Vikasa Soudha here, he said that as per the University Grants Commission guidelines, permission should not be given to open colleges not having basic facilities. He said that even in the matter of starting new courses, all the yardsticks should be met, adding that in case of complaints, heads of university VCs and registrars may roll.

The DCM stated that autonomy was given to universities to avoid political interference in education. "This power should be put to use in a positive way. But if it is found that autonomy is not being used justifiably, the government will have to rethink on the issue. The universities should function by keeping in mind the fact that quality education paves way for the formation of a noble society. Power is not to display arrogance, but to use it for achieve good things," he advised.

Ashwath Narayan said that complaining about everything does not solve the problem. He said he has instructed to appoint syndicate members to local inquiry committees. He also wanted the universities to conduct administrative activities online.

The minister said that graduates often come under pressure when they think about future opportunities and employment but then fail to get employment. He said to avoid this, counsellors would be appointed to every school through youth empowerment centres since the stage of high schools where students would be guided on prospects of future studies, skill training, educational loans, professional life etc.

He revealed that the government has given its approval for the appointment of 400 principals and 1,600 assistant principals He said that the lists prepared by Karnataka Examination Authority would be used by universities for making appointments and the examination authority does not conduct any examination or interview for the same.