MLA Manthar Gowda-led delegation urges government to retain Kodagu University

The delegation, led by Madikeri MLA Manthar Gowda, included committee members Krishne Gowda, V.P. Shashidhar, H.S. Chandramouli, and K.P. Chandrakala.

BENGALURU: A delegation from the Kodagu University Welfare Committee met Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar in Bengaluru on Monday, urging the state government to keep Kodagu University operational.

The delegation, led by Madikeri MLA Manthar Gowda, included committee members Krishne Gowda, V.P. Shashidhar, H.S. Chandramouli, and K.P. Chandrakala. They firmly requested the government to ensure that the university remains open and continues serving students in the region.

In response, Shivakumar assured them that the government is committed to providing quality higher education in Kodagu district, enabling students to compete nationally and internationally. He stressed that student interests would be protected and their education would face minimal disruption.

The deputy chief minister added that further discussions would be held after consulting various stakeholders. He also acknowledged receiving representations from faculty members suggesting a merger of Kodagu University with Mangalore University, a proposal that would be reviewed by a cabinet sub-committee.

The appeal comes amid uncertainty over the university’s future, with stakeholders seeking clarity and pushing for continued access to higher education in the region.