Haveri University's First Convocation Venue Sparks Controversy Over Infrastructure
Haveri University, a newly established institution in Karnataka, is embroiled in a dispute over the venue for its inaugural convocation scheduled for April 6. The university administration has planned to hold the event at a private college in Haveri city, citing a severe lack of adequate infrastructure on its own campus. However, student organizations are vehemently opposing this decision, insisting that the convocation must take place on the university premises to draw attention to developmental shortcomings.
Background and Establishment of the University
Located at Keremattihalli, Haveri University was originally a postgraduate centre of Karnatak University in Dharwad. During the tenure of the BJP government, it was officially recognized as a full-fledged university in 2022, with operations commencing in March 2023. This first convocation is a significant milestone, set to award degrees to more than 1,000 students, including 300 postgraduates and 600 BEd students.
University's Justification for Off-Campus Venue
University officials have cited multiple reasons for opting to host the convocation at a private college. They highlight a major funding shortfall, noting that while an annual grant of Rs 2 crore was promised at the time of establishment, the university currently lacks adequate funds. The institution does not possess a well-equipped auditorium or sufficient classrooms, making it unfeasible to accommodate the expected large gathering on campus.
More than 2,000 people, including over 1,000 students and their parents, are anticipated to attend. The university lacks an auditorium of that capacity and a properly equipped stage to host 32 dignitaries, including Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, who will preside over the event. Officials argue that holding the convocation in a tent on the university grounds would not be dignified, whereas the private college offers all necessary facilities.
"There is a lack of basic infrastructure at the university. With more than 2,000 expected attendees, there is no auditorium of that size, and the stage is not well-equipped for the dignitaries, including the governor. For these reasons, the convocation is being held at a private college," clarified Suresh Jangamashetti, Vice-Chancellor of Haveri University.
Student Organizations' Demands and Threats
In contrast, student groups, including the Students' Federation of India (SFI), assert that holding the convocation on campus would spotlight the lack of development and potentially help secure future funding. They also point to practical issues such as the absence of proper bus connectivity to Keremattihalli, arguing that an on-campus event could prompt solutions to these infrastructure gaps.
"To bring attention to the lack of development at Haveri University, the convocation should be held on campus. Otherwise, we will protest through measures like roadblocks and black cloth demonstrations," warned Basavaraj S, district president of SFI.
Preparations and Dignitaries
Despite the controversy, preparations for the convocation are actively underway. University officials are conducting meetings and assigning responsibilities, while the police department is preparing security arrangements, inspecting the intended venue, and conducting related activities. The event will feature Ashok B Hinchigeri, chairman of the Karnataka Law Commission, delivering the convocation address, with Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar and Vice-Chancellor Prof Suresh Jangamashetti among other dignitaries in attendance.
The situation underscores broader challenges in higher education infrastructure in Karnataka, balancing ceremonial dignity with grassroots advocacy for institutional development.
