KSOU mess: panel to focus on students' problems

A technical committee headed by senior IAS officer K Ratna Prabha has decided to furnish a report to the government highlighting the problems faced by over 95,000 students following derecognition of the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU).

The panel was constituted by the state government on October 12, asking it to look into the various issues plaguing the varsity, and submit a report in one month's time.

As per the terms of reference, the panel is required to explore the possibilities of diverting KSOU funds of around Rs 550 crore for the development of other government universities and colleges; and repatriating the teaching and non-teaching staff to other varsities.

It is, however, learnt that the six-member panel, which met on Friday, has decided to uphold the cause of the students who have been at the receiving end for no fault of theirs. The panel also fears further fueling the prevailing controversy if it completely focuses its energies on diverting funds and staff.

Sources said it was hence decided to resolve the problems of the students first, before taking up the administrative matters.