Bengaluru: Faculty shortage, miscellaneous problems at hostels, confusion in administration and poor infrastructure were among the issues that Vice-Chancellors of government universities brought to the notice of Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddi on Saturday.
After lending a patient ear to the VCs' grievances, Rayareddi assured them that he would visit every public university in the state. "On these visits, I will review academic activity, the state of the infrastructure, the research undertaken at the varsities and the problems faced by both the staff and students, and ensure that necessary measures are taken," said Rayareddi.
No plans to establish new engg colleges: RayareddiThe minister asked the VCs to emphasise research at their respective universities. Pointing to the changing educational landscape across the globe, Rayareddi said, "Universities should make use of technical expertise and improve the quality of teaching and learning."
All universities must prepare their academic calendars well in advance, and stick to the same, said the minister. "Efforts must be made to ensure that classes, examinations and the announcement of results are not delayed. The government will offer all the support to strengthen the universities. Necessary steps will be taken to improve academic quality, research capabilities and infrastructure," Rayareddi said.
Problems ailing each varsity will be identified and an action plan chalked out to solve them step-by-step, said Rayareddi. "The government will prioritise solving all the problems. We must create a wholesome environment to attract more students to government universities rather than lose them to private institutions," he added.

