Ministers Sound Alarm Over Karnataka Universities at Academic Event
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stressed the critical importance of lifelong learning for an active and meaningful life during a public address in Dharwad on Sunday. His remarks came at the inauguration of the Amrut Mahotsav programme, held to commemorate the 75th birth anniversary of the distinguished mathematician Professor HB Walikar at Karnatak University.
Celebrating India's Scientific Heritage
In his speech, Joshi lauded Professor Walikar's significant contributions to the field of mathematics, using the occasion to highlight India's rich and enduring scientific legacy. He referenced iconic figures such as Charaka, Srinivasa Ramanujan, APJ Abdul Kalam, and Vikram Sarabhai to underscore the nation's historical prowess.
"Ancient Indian research has earned global recognition," Joshi stated. "Despite facing disruptions during periods of foreign invasion, India consistently remained at the forefront of scientific discovery. The world owes the concept of zero to Indian scholars. From the genius of Ramanujan to the visionary leadership of Abdul Kalam, our scientists have made indelible contributions. Mathematics is, without question, the foundational bedrock of all research." He further noted the growing significance of a knowledge-based economy in the modern era.
State Ministers Reveal Deepening University Crisis
While the event celebrated academic achievement, it also served as a platform for state ministers to voice serious and urgent concerns regarding the deteriorating condition of universities across Karnataka.
State Law Minister HK Patil acknowledged Professor Walikar's dedication to teaching well into his advanced years but shifted focus to the systemic issues plaguing higher education. "Vice-chancellors are currently struggling to disburse staff salaries," Patil revealed. "Approximately 14,000 teaching and non-teaching posts lie vacant across state universities, yet there is a disturbing silence and lack of protest from academic bodies and associations."
He presented an even more alarming statistic: "Student enrolment in higher education institutions has plummeted by a staggering 45% over just the past three years. This trend is deeply concerning for the future of our youth and the state's intellectual capital."
Calls for Strategic Reform and Academic Integrity
Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar also addressed the gathering, praising Professor Walikar's pivotal role in fostering a robust academic environment. However, Shettar issued a caution against the haphazard expansion of universities.
"Establishing universities in every district without comprehensive planning and adequate resources will inevitably lead to severe academic and financial challenges," he warned, advocating for a broader, more informed public debate on the matter.
Shettar emphasized the pressing need to develop world-class universities and to insulate educational institutions from political interference. He also supported the practice of conferring honorary doctorates on individuals who have made substantial contributions to society, deeming it a fitting recognition.
Event Attended by Dignitaries
The programme was attended by several notable figures, including MLAs Arvind Bellad, NH Konaraddi, and Prasad Abbayya; MLCs FH Jakkappanavar and SV Sankanur; and Karnatak University Vice-Chancellor Professor AM Khan.
The event, intended to honor a mathematical luminary, ultimately highlighted a stark contrast between India's celebrated academic past and the pressing governance and financial crises threatening its present-day higher education system in Karnataka.
