MU cancels M Phil course

MANGALORE: Mangalore University has decided to do away with the Master of Philosophy (M Phil) course it reintroduced two years ago citing lack of sufficient candidates to keep the course going.
The M Phil degree has suddenly became popular among teachers after the University Grants Commission (UGC) announced considering the degree for appointments as lecturers in colleges.It has also given exemption from the National Entrance Test (NET) for candidates who have an M Phil degree.
Mangalore University registrar Prabhakar Neermarga told The Times of India that they have decided to stop the course from this academic year following instructions from UGC making NET compulsory for appointment of lecturers in colleges. Moreover, M Phil degree holders were getting the benefits of two increments and the latest UGC instructions have put on a seal on these benefits.
Sources in the university said there was a rush for pursuing an M Phil when it was considered for the post of lecturers. "In Mangalore University, the number of candidates who enrolled for M Phil was fewer from the beginning because we followed the rules strictly. Last year 72 candidates, including 3 in science, 25 in arts and 16 for commerce, enrolled," Neermarga added.
The enrolment was fewer when compared with other universities because it was easier to get a degree from the other universities under the distance education mode. Complaints of irregularities in the system too have made the UGC change its guidelines pertaining to the appointment of lecturers, sources said.
Coffee Break
We should keep in mind the global needs rather than the domestic needs while reforming the education system, said M R Nayak, general manager, Corporation Bank. Inaugurating the seminar on Hubs of 21st century life- How should universities and colleges adapt to a changing world at Besant Women's College here recently, he said today Indian professionals were in great demand worldwide and our education system should equip them to tackle the challenges not only in our country but in different countries.
Notice Board
Mangalore University has invited applications from all affiliated colleges and educational institutes for granting permanent, new, continuing or extended affiliation for the 2010-11. Applications filled in proper format should be sent to the university registrar. Applications forms and other details can be had from the office of the registrar paying a demand draft of Rs 1,000.