Jadavpur University Evening Courses in Peril as Funds Dwindle
Evening courses offered by various departments in arts, science, and engineering at Jadavpur University are now facing an uncertain future due to a severe financial crisis. A university-appointed committee has raised concerns about the sustainability of these programs, highlighting a pressing need to address the institution's budgetary shortfalls.
Committee Proposes Drastic Measures to Boost Income
The committee, tasked with enhancing the university's revenue and rationalizing expenses, has suggested a comprehensive review of the 14 evening courses currently in operation. According to sources, these courses incur an annual expenditure of approximately Rs 6 crore, primarily managed by part-time teachers and staff. "Our intention is not to close down any evening course," a committee member clarified. "However, over the years, their demand has significantly dipped. We need to reassess these programs because the revenue generated does not justify the high costs involved."
In addition to revisiting the evening courses, the committee has outlined several other austerity measures:
- Restricting unnecessary use of university vehicles to cut down on operational costs.
- Limiting expenses on food and beverages during meetings and conferences.
- Introducing more self-financed courses to generate additional income streams.
- Rationalizing student fees, with any increases being minimal and accompanied by subsidies for economically disadvantaged students.
- Acquiring more research projects and renewing focus on consultancy services.
- Tapping into the alumni network for financial support and donations.
- Increasing parking fees for teachers and non-teaching staff from the current Rs 50 to contribute to revenue.
Budget Deficit Threatens Basic University Functions
A source within the university revealed alarming financial details: "The minimum maintenance required per year is around Rs 50 crore, but the university receives only about Rs 15 crore to Rs 16 crore from the state government for maintenance purposes. This leaves a budget deficit of nearly Rs 35 crore, and the university's corpus fund is almost depleted." The source warned that without immediate action, there could be insufficient funds for basic classroom teaching and laboratory maintenance within a few years, jeopardizing the quality of education.
The committee emphasized that increasing student fees would be a last resort, with any adjustments discussed transparently with students. "We will ensure that any fee hike is minimal and includes exemptions for those from financially weaker sections," the member added. The focus remains on exploring alternative revenue sources and optimizing existing resources to bridge the financial gap.
As Jadavpur University grapples with this funds crunch, the future of its evening courses hangs in the balance, prompting calls for swift administrative and policy interventions to safeguard educational standards.
