Interest in Gandhian Studies dwindles in many State universities in Karnataka
State universities in Karnataka are seeing a decline in student interest for Gandhian Studies, leading to the closure of several departments and courses. Officials cite a lack of funding and a disconnect between Gandhian principles and modern career aspirations.
Why it matters
The decline of specialized humanities programs reflects broader shifts in academic priorities and the challenges of keeping historical ideologies relevant to younger generations.
Academic activities at the Centre for Gandhian Studies on Bangalore University’s Jnanabharathi campus have come to a halt due to a lack of student interest, funding issues and other reasons. The university discontinued the diploma and certificate courses offered by the centre about five years ago as there were not many takers.
With some exceptions, this appears to be the scenario in other State-run universities too.
The foundation stone of the Centre for Gandhian Studies at Bangalore University was laid by former President of India Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on December 8, 1965.
Earlier, the Centre used to offer a one-year diploma and a six-month certificate course in Gandhian Thought. However, over the past few years, enrolments had dwindled. Besides, there were allegations that some students were using the centre only to secure hostel accommodation and access other university benefits.
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