Private colleges in Karnataka fear that the upcoming session may see a drop in students from outside the state. Dental courses are expected to be the worst hit with a number of undergraduate and post-graduate seats already being left empty.
Incidentally, Karnataka has the highest number of government and private medical colleges. The management quota seats of private institutions may also be left empty. This could have a significant impact on cash flow for private institutions.
Parents Don’t Want To Send Their Children To Hostels And Pgs
One of the reasons the colleges are fearing this drop is the assumption that parents will want their children to stay at home as far as possible. Given how difficult it has been for stranded students to get home during this pandemic, parents will not want to send their children to distant colleges.
Hygiene and sanitation is another reason parents may prefer having their children stay at home rather than in PG accommodation.
Reduced Spending Power
With several job cuts and salary reductions being expected, the spending power of parents may also reduce. Though most colleges will not be hiking fees, the fees for PG seats were recently hiked in many colleges. There are also a number of other expenses such as accommodation, food, travel etc. that must be considered. In addition, airfares are also expected to rise.
Response From The Karnataka Government
Karnataka is a hub for higher education and lower student influx may affect the state’s economy. The government is expected to offer more student loans and has advised colleges to partner with good hostels instead of expecting students to rely on PG accommodation.
This will help the colleges keep an eye on hygiene, social distancing practices and sanitation levels and reassure parents of their child’s safety.
