Ravenshaw students oppose shifting of departments to second campus

The decision of Ravenshaw University authorities to shift some departments of the varsity to its second campus located at Naraj in Cuttack faced stiff opposition from a section of students who opposed the move on Tuesday citing lack of basic facilities in the new campus.

According to sources, the university authorities have decided to shift ITM, IST and BBA departments to its second campus and resume classes from July 15.

However, the students of the departments opposed the decision and submitted a memorandum to University Vice Chancellor Sanjay Kumar Nayak alleging the second campus does not have the necessary infrastructure including proper transportation facilities.

The students alleged the second campus lacks hostels, canteen, playground, dispensary and bank facilities. Moreover, the second campus is 16 km away from the University.

“There is no hostel facility. And, the route is not safe too. I urge the authorities to carry out the shifting only after all the necessary facilities are made available,” said Rohan Pradhan, a student of ITM department.

“After we submitted the memorandum, the VC assured us that all arrangements will be done within 15 days. But, we don’t feel so. We are thankful that a second campus is being set up for self-financing courses. But, we should be shifted to the new campus after the project is fully completed,” demanded Monalisa Panda, a second year student of ITM department.

On the other hand, the University officials refuted the claims of the students and said arrangements of smart class, library, lab and hostel with accommodation facility for 200 students have been made at the second campus. The officials added that the State government has been requested to extend Mo Bus services to the second campus.

“Smart classrooms, labs and library have been set up at the new campus. Besides, two women's hostels are there. We are ready with the minimum required facilities to hold classes. We have requested the Odisha government to extend Mo Bus services to the second campus from Biju Patnaik Park so that students do not face any problems,” said Professor Asima Sahu, PG Council Chairman, Ravenshaw University.