Mangaluru: Mangalore University’s Academic Council recently approved a range of new academic programmes and course proposals for the 2026–27 academic year, aimed at broadening educational opportunities and aligning higher education with emerging career requirements.Vice-chancellor PL Dharma said that the university was continuously reviewing its academic framework to respond to changing student aspirations and the evolving needs of the region. “We are constantly evaluating our academic framework to ensure that students have access to contemporary fields of study that offer genuine career viability,” Dharma said. The introduction of new courses reflected the university’s efforts to expand academic opportunities while maintaining academic standards, he said.With the latest changes, the university’s affiliated network now comprises 150 institutions. The council also took note of the non-renewal of affiliation for four colleges for the current academic year, Ambika Mahavidyalaya in Puttur, Anjuman First Grade College in Jokatte, Prerana College in Mangaluru and Sri Bharathi College in Mangaluru.Among the academic proposals approved by the council was the introduction of Tulu as an optional subject at the degree level at Alva’s College, Moodubidire. The move is expected to provide students an opportunity to pursue the study of the region’s language and cultural heritage as part of their higher education.The council also cleared proposals relating to multidisciplinary and career-oriented programmes, including specialised business management certifications and digital marketing courses. The programmes are aimed at providing students with practical exposure and skills relevant to the corporate sector.Dharma said colleges had been encouraged to come forward with programmes that address both regional requirements and emerging employment opportunities.“When institutions come forward with proposals that enrich our regional heritage and technical landscape, such as the inclusion of local linguistic studies or modern technical certifications, we ensure they receive immediate administrative support,” he said.He said the university’s objective was to create an inclusive academic environment in which specialised programmes could develop within the prescribed regulatory framework.Dharma urged heads of affiliated institutions to ensure strict compliance with university statutes and regulations while implementing the newly approved programmes. The university is expected to monitor the academic and administrative implementation of the courses during the 2026–27 academic year.
