Karnatak University has most vacancies in Karnataka universities

Bengaluru: Karnatak University has the most vacant teaching and non-teaching positions among public universities in Karnataka, with 1,263 roles unfilled. Bangalore University and the University of Mysore follow closely, according to the state’s higher education department. The data was provided to the Legislative Council after member Umashree raised a question about university vacancies. The government previously stated that around 77% of positions in public universities remain vacant. This situation has arisen due to a long-term freeze on hiring, leaving many roles unoccupied. Bangalore University has 1,006 vacancies, including 772 non-teaching positions. The University of Mysore has 380 teaching posts and 367 non-teaching posts vacant. Other universities with significant vacancies include Karnataka State Open University (598 positions), Gulbarga University (577), and Mangalore University (507). Additionally, Maharani Cluster University in Bengaluru has 423 unfilled posts, while Bengaluru City University needs to fill 266. University officials report that many institutions are relying on guest faculty and contract workers to conduct classes. For example, Karnatak University has about 1,800 retired faculty members helping to cover classes. Bangalore University is also managing vacancies through guest lecturers and outsourced staff. Maheshappa H, secretary of the Forum of Former Vice-Chancellors of Karnataka, emphasized the urgent need for the government to start recruiting in universities. He pointed out that relying on guest lecturers could harm the quality of education and research, which affects university rankings. He criticized the government's hesitance to recruit due to financial concerns, stating that education and health should be top priorities for investment.