Samiti urges Centre to appoint Kannadiga as Central University Vice-Chancellor

Kalyana Karnataka Pratyeka Rajya Horata Samiti has urged the Union government to appoint a qualified academician from Karnataka as Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Karnataka (CUK) at Kadaganchi, on the outskirts of Kalaburagi.

M.S. Patil Naribol, President of the Samiti, said in a release that the University, established in the educationally backward Kalyana Karnataka region, plays a significant role in strengthening higher education, research, and academic opportunities. Mr. Naribol said appointing a Kannadiga with strong academic credentials and an understanding of Karnataka’s educational landscape would help the university better address local needs and contribute to the region’s educational advancement.

He said a Vice-Chancellor familiar with Karnataka’s language, culture, socio-economic conditions and regional educational challenges could help shape inclusive academic policies, strengthen collaboration with state universities and colleges, encourage research on regional issues, and improve access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Mr. Naribol also expressed his strong reservations about appointing a Vice-Chancellor from outside Karnataka, stating that leadership with a deeper understanding of the state’s educational priorities could strengthen the university’s engagement with local communities and institutions. He emphasised that the selection process should be guided by academic merit, administrative experience, and a commitment to regional development, while eligible candidates from Karnataka should receive due consideration.

Warning against appointing a candidate from another state, Mr. Naribol said various organisations would launch an agitation if the Centre proceeded with such a decision. He urged the Union government to appoint a qualified Kannadiga as Vice-Chancellor in the larger interest of the university and the educational development of the Kalyana Karnataka region.