Patients, Students Of Utkalmani Homeopathic College In Rourkela Stare At Uncertainty

Rourkela: At a time when the 5T team of Odisha government is making regular visits to hospitals across the State, patients and students of Utkalmani Homeopathic Medical College & Hospital (UHMC) in Rourkela are facing hardships of sorts.

As per reports, the 25-bedded hospital has an out-patient department and other facilities, but there are not enough doctors and professors.

“I had come here with a lot of hope to build a good future but now I am not sure whether I am at the right place. There are not enough professors to teach us,” said a medical student Shikha Ruhil.

While the number of sanctioned lecturer posts is 15, there are only four lecturers. Similarly, only three professors have been appointed against six posts. Instead of 15 readers there is only one person who has been appointed as temporary staffer.

Despite Ayush Department's letter to Odisha government to take adequate steps to resolve the issues or stop admissions, the State government is reportedly allowing new admissions by giving an undertaking. Sources said this year the number of seats has been increased as well.

“We are facing a lot of difficulties due to shortage of professors and lecturers,” a student Gargjyoti Behera said.

Acknowledging shortage of lecturers and professors, UHMC Superintendent, Ratnakar Panda said, “There is a shortage of teaching staff in our college. We have already informed about it to the government. Hopefully, they will resolve the issue soon.”