Proposal on varsities’ merger opposed

Madikeri: Kushalnagar Kodava Samaja (KKS) has warned of demonstrations against the govt's proposed university merger move.
Speaking to reporters in Kushalnagar, the organisation expressed its opposition to the suggested merger of Kodagu University with the University of Mysore (UoM), its parent university.
KKS firmly rejected the state's proposal to merge Kodagu University located in Aluvara village with UoM. "The previous BJP govt set up the Kodagu University to provide higher education to the poor and middle-class people living in Kodagu district. Through this, hundreds of poor students could pursue higher studies, and the dreams of students and parents are coming true. It is unfortunate that the state govt is now considering to merge it with another university," said V Manu Nanjunda, KKS president.
Nanjunda announced plans for intense protests along with various district organisations if the govt proceeds with its plan. Emphasising the importance of developing Kodagu University, he said the district students consistently achieve high rankings in SSLC and II PU exams. "The university in the district has enabled many students to pursue higher studies after graduation. The govt should stop the move of merging the university and think about the future of the students," he urged.
KKS also pledged support to the University Interest Protection Group's initiatives. PM Chengappa, vice-president of KKS, and others were present at the press meet.