Bhubaneswar, 22 February (H.S.): The Odisha government is actively considering the demand to grant university status to Shailabala Women’s Autonomous College, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said, amid ongoing student protests on the issue.

Responding to the demand, the minister stated that the government has not ignored the matter and is examining it carefully. He clarified that priority would first be given to infrastructure development, followed by strengthening the academic environment before any final decision is taken.

On Saturday, students staged a day-long sit-in protest pressing for university recognition. Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous and BJP leader Sritam Das visited the protest site and held discussions with the students. Following the talks and persuasion, the students withdrew their protest late at night.

Earlier in the day, students had taken to the streets and staged demonstrations questioning why the 113-year-old institution has not yet been accorded university recognition. The agitation had been continuing for the past 28 days.

“We are not rejecting the demand. Senior administrative officials have already interacted with the students, and further discussions will be held. The government will take an appropriate decision at the right time,” the minister said.

He added that for meaningful upgradation, the college would require development of a second campus, land allocation and adequate staffing. “Upgrading an institution into a university may cost around ₹50–70 crore, whereas establishing a new university requires about ₹300–350 crore along with recurring expenses. Therefore, infrastructure development is essential before granting university status,” Suraj explained.

The government is expected to hold further discussions with stakeholders before arriving at a final decision.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda