Roomies uncomfortable with PAU’s 4th-bed idea

Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has decided to increase the number of beds in its hostel rooms to four, hoping that this solution will address the growing demand for on-campus accommodation, but the students haven’t liked the idea of sharing a tighter space.The students and their parents argue that the existing space in the hostel rooms is limited already, and an extra bed will only aggravate the problem. Those who dread losing their comfort also highlighted that a fourth roommate will come with more furniture than just a bed, and that will reduce their living space further. Instead of increasing the number of students in every room, they suggest expanding the infrastructure and constructing more hostels.

Of the university’s 15 hostels, 7 each are for boys and girls, while another is for the international students. A student opposed to the extra-bed decision said on the condition of anonymity that: "Our hostel rooms are barely sufficient for three people and adding a fourth bed will make it crowded to the extreme, with not enough space to even move around. If the new guy brings more furniture, it will only make it worse.”Another student argued that: “If the university implements its decision, there will also be a requirement for additional wardrobe, chairs, and other furniture. All that wood will also occupy some space in the room.” Yet another student said that: “The current room sizes in the PAU’s hostels were not designed to accommodate four people, so making this adjustment will impact our quality of life, ability to study, and comfort.”Director of students’ welfare (DSW) Nirmal Jaura said: “We understand the concerns of the students. Therefore, we will add another bed in only those rooms or hostels where the space is available. The students and their parents have been demanding extra on-campus accommodation for long and we are exploring our options.”The vice-chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Satbir Singh Gosal, said: “Earlier, the seats of some courses used to remain vacant, while in this academic session, almost all the seats are occupied. Therefore, we are facing some challenges in accommodating students in the hostels.” Confronted about the new proposal, he said that: “We have planned to add an extra bed in the hostel rooms for now and we request the students to cooperate with us and adjust.”

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Harassed boy, 1st-generation engg student, may get a different hostel

Several officials and teachers at Jadavpur University discussed relocating MTech student Biswajit Pramanik to a different hostel after he was mentally tormented by peers over false theft allegations. Pramanik, from a poor Purulia family, is the first in his family pursuing higher education. A report on the incident has been submitted, seeking a safety-focused decision.