KOLKATA: After the resumption of offline classes, universities and colleges have shifted their focus on infrastructure, repairs and renovations that could not be carried out during the pandemic.
Some institutes are procuring books and equipment for their libraries and labs while others have started renovation and repairs within the campus. Many colleges are also investing in infrastructure, constructing washrooms, paving internal carriageways and even portions of hostels.
Most colleges and universities get funds and grants that are time- and purpose-bound and if the authorities fail to utilise the sum within the stipulated time, they must forgo the funds.
Campuses reopened fully this month after a gap of almost two years. Prolonged closure, lack of maintenance and cyclonic weather have harmed portions of the campuses.
Calcutta University has already initiated several works, including repairs and maintenance of lifts in different campuses, cleaning of overhead water reservoirs in different hostels of the university, procuring equipment for various departments and even disposal of scrap material from its College Street campus.
“Two years is a long time and a lot of places needed overhaul, repairs and maintenance. Now that the higher education system is completely open and offline classes have started, it is now time to shift focus to the upkeep of the campuses,” said an official of Calcutta University.
Scottish Church College has started the process of construction of a new toilet in one of the hostels and a canteen near the BEd building. The road in front of the main building will be repaired too. Lady Brabourne College will be sprucing up the interiors with glow sign boards, room number plates with LED display and smart notice boards for students and computers.
Jadavpur University, too, is procuring equipment, books and other materials for various departments. “The university has reopened after two years, so students will be using labs, libraries and other infrastructure which is going to put load on the infrastructure. We are trying replenish our inventory so that students don’t face inconvenience,” said a university official.
Presidency University is in the process of procuring lab equipment, chemicals and consumables for its various departments. Seth Anandram Jaipuria College is looking to hire an agency for data management of the college and other allied works.
The principal of a south Kolkata college said: “Colleges and universities get funds and grants from the state government under various heads. These are time- and purpose-bound and we have to utilise them within a stipulated time or forgo them.”
