Odisha: Unitary University Status For Khallikote Autonomous College

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday announced unitary university status for Khallikote Autonomous College in Berhampur.

“Khallikote Autonomous College is one of the oldest colleges of the state having a rich academic tradition. Many of its almuni have established themselves in various fields,” a release from the CMO said.

“Unitary university status to this college has fulfilled the aspirations of the people of southern Odisha. It will usher in a new academic journey promoting research, new studies relevant to current times,” said the Chief Minister while making the announcement.

Official sources said formation of the new varsity to be known as Khallikote Unitary University will pave the way for merger of the existing Khallikote University (set up in 2015) with Berhampur University. Regular teaching and non-teaching employees of Khallikote University will be absorbed in Berhampur University and the students of the former will continue their education under the latter’s banner, sources clarified.

Twenty acres of land allotted to Khallikote University in Palur Hills near Berhampur will be surrendered to the revenue department for alternative use. Besides, the government will request Governor and Chancellor of Universities Ganeshi Lal  to appoint the Vice Chancellor, Registrar and Comptroller of Finance of the existing Khalikote University as such in the new Khalikote Unitary University, sources informed.

In February 2020, the Higher Education department notified change in status of Khallikote University from being a cluster university to a unitary university and disaffiliated its five constituent colleges, including Khallikote Autonomous College (the lead college), and reaffiliate those with Berhampur University with effect from June 1, 2020. This had triggered confusion over what constituted Khallikote University and also its feasibility.