State will offer free education to girls upto degree, says minister

The state government will waive tution fee for girls studying degree in aided colleges in the state from next academic year, Higher Education minister R V Deshpande said on Thursday. This measure is being taken to improve enrollment of girls in higher education.

Speaking after inaugurating SDM PG Study Centre building built at a cost of Rs 30 crore here on Tuesday, he said out of 70 lakh students, only 17 lakh students are availing higher education in the State. There is a need to provide higher education to all to bring them back to the mainstream of the society.

“Youth are resources of a country. No one should be denied of higher education for lack of funds,” he said.

“Students should work hard and respect elders. The students should be committed in their life. Instead of searching for employment, it would be better to take up self-employment to progress economically. In this competitive world, students will have to face tough competition from all over. The available information and technology should be  made use for the development of personality.” 

The Minister said under Naipunya Nidhi scheme, three lakh students will be imparted professional and skill development training.  Mangalore University Vice-Chancellor Prof T C Shivashankaramurthy said that quality education will help in the progress of a country.

Post graduation students should take up research after completing the course. In his presidential address, Dharmadhikari D Veerendra Heggade said that  students should develop service mind along with gaining knowledge. However, one should not compromise on quality of education.

College Principal Dr B Yashovarma, Collegiate Education Joint Director Yogananda were present.