Mysore varsity awarded 995 doctorate degrees in four years

The University of Mysore has awarded the highest number of doctorate degrees in the State in the last four years.

According to a statement given by Minister for Higher Education R.V. Deshpande in the Legislative Council on Friday, 995 students were awarded Ph.D. degree by the university from 2011 till date.

While 298 students were awarded doctorate degrees in 2011–12, 271 were awarded in 2012–13, 386 in 2013–14 and 40 students have been awarded doctorate degrees so far this year.

Kannada University, Hampi, follows the Mysore university by awarding 171 doctorate degrees during this period. While 26 students got Ph.D. degree from Bangalore University, 31 got from Gulbarga University and 19 from Karnatak University during this period, according to the statement.

BJP MLC Ashwathanarayana, who sought information about the total number of universities in the State and the number of doctorate degrees awarded by them, told The Hindu that it was surprising that nearly 1,000 students had secured Ph.D. degree from the University of Mysore. “Why did so many students opt to get a Ph.D. degree from Mysore? Is it because it is easily available or is it because it is the oldest premier educational institution in the State. The government should throw some light on this,” he said.

He said it was also surprising that no doctorate degree had been awarded so far by Rani Channamma University in Belgaum, Dr. Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University in Mysore and Karnataka Janapada University at Gotgodi village in Haveri district.

Mr. Ashwathanarayana, who had also sought information on the number of honorary doctorate degrees awarded by these universities, has decided to write to the vice-chancellors seeking details.