A majority of government-run pre-university college buildings in the district are in a bad shape and need immediate attention. Of the 68 buildings, as many as 38 buildings are in a deplorable condition.
The office of the Deputy Director of Pre-University (DDPU) has submitted a report to the Department of PU Education (DPUE), seeking remedial measures for the safety of students and the teaching faculty.
The DPUE got into the action mode after a portion of the plaster of the ceiling of the 160-year-old Maharaja’s PU College in the city caved in a few days back. In-charge Deputy Director of Pre-University (DDPU) Regina P Malaki said that she has asked all principals to submit a report on the condition of their respective college buildings.
“Many structures have problems with the roof, flooring, compound, walls, etc. We have already submitted a report to the PU Board but the authorities have sought a more detailed report. The board has sent a computerised (digital) format to fill the details of the condition of the buildings and about the facilities needed. The forms will be updated and sent to the authorities concerned, soon,” she added.
Malaki said that she has convened a meeting of the principals to discuss about the condition of the structures and about other necessary basic facilities on the college campus. “Many colleges need extra rooms and other facilities as many of them are extensions of schools. A majority of the damaged structures are old. The buildings, both in rural as well as urban area, are damaged and need attention,” she said.
A student of the city’s college, who prefered anonymity, said, “The condition of the college building is pathetic. It is difficult for students to attend classes during rainy season due to poor condition of the roof. Classrooms are flooded with rainwater. Though we have been urging the college management to take steps to repair the building, nothing has happened till date,” he added.
Former PU Board director B S Sridhara Raj Urs said that lack of interest among administrators, Public Works department and Education department authorities is the main reason behind the condition of the government education institutions.
“Earlier, the government used to earmark funds for repair of institutions, every year. It is the responsibility of the officials concerned to communicate the problems to the government to take up renovation works. Even the government should take care of its institutions. Nobody, including people’s representatives, teaching fraternity, is concerned about maintaining the buildings. The condition of government college buildings reflect the condition of the government,” he said.
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