Mangalore University will implement culture policy

Mangaluru: In order to encourage students to get more involved in art and culture, Mangalore University (MU) has come up with a separate culture policy, that will be along the lines of its sports policy.
A separate culture policy was mooted one-and-a-half years ago by PS Yadapadithaya, vice-chancellor, MU. Though it was supposed to be launched in April, it was delayed due to the pandemic, and the committee could not hold meetings. “Finally, we are ready with the draft of the policy. Next week, it will be uploaded on the MU website for about 15 days, to get public opinion, and suggestions on the policy. Changes, if any, will be made after receiving suggestions and opinions. The policy will be unveiled in the last week of November, or the first week of December,” said Yadapadithaya.
He said that it is headed by Mohan Alva, chairman, Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodbidri; retired professor V Aravinda Hebbar; and former vice-chancellors B Viveka Rai and Chinappa Gowda. Other members include teaching faculty, and those who are well-known for art and folklore in the region.
“As per the policy, we are planning to install artefacts and sculptures depicting various cultures of the coastal region, such as kambala, Bhoota kola, Yakshagana, and Tiger Dance. Besides, it will have artefacts related to Kodagu district, which comes under the jurisdiction of MU. It will be installed in front of various buildings on the Mangalagangothri campus, as well as the administrative office of MU,’’ he added.
The second aspect of the culture policy is identifying talent, among lower-income groups. “The MU jurisdiction has a lot of colleges, and the majority of the students who study here come from poor backgrounds, but are rich in talent. We will identify them, and help nurture them through this policy. We will also offer them scholarships or fellowships, and sponsor them to participate in bigger events,” said Yadapadithaya.