Entrance exam must for PhD in Hampi varsity

Now, to enrol for a PhD programme at Kannada University, Hampi, aspirants will have to write an entrance examination besides completing a six-month course work.

As per the decision taken at the Syndicate meeting of the University conducted in Bangalore, on Monday, the varsity will be following the University Grants Commission’s rules while admitting students for PhD programme from the next academic year.

The Syndicate has approved the implementation of new guidelines for conducting PhD programme, said H C Boralingaiah, vice-chancellor (in-charge) of Kannada University.

The entrance examination will be conducted in June, he said. However, norms followed by the University so far has been in tune with the UGC guidelines for PhD.

“The entrance examination will be for 100 marks. Of the total marks, 50 per cent of it will test general knowledge of PhD aspirants,” Boralingaiah said.

The Syndicate meeting which was attended by six members also discussed NCERT Kannada textbooks for I PU Science stream.

“The total cost of the textbook project is anywhere between Rs one crore and Rs 1.40 crore. So far the Department of Pre-University Education has not sanctioned a rupee. If funds are not released, the textbook project cannot be completed in two months,” he said.

The vice chancellor highlighted the varsity’s struggle in meeting the salary expenses of nearly 300 staff. The salary bill comes to Rs one crore, whereas the varsity has a deficit of Rs 2.5 crore this year.