Mysuru varsity plans to provide interim housing for foreign students

International Centre to consult foreign embassies on the proposal

Director of International Centre Krishne Gowda (right) with students on the Manasagangotri campus in Mysuru.— PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

Foreign students, who arrive here for higher studies in the University of Mysore, are likely to get provisional accommodation in dormitories proposed to be built on the Manasagangotri campus.

The university’s International Centre, which facilitates foreign students’ admissions in the university and its affiliated colleges, has proposed to construct its own building and dormitories for students to give them interim housing soon after their arrival.

“Getting accommodation soon after they land here is difficult as they are new to the city. Therefore, we have proposed to build dormitories,” said Krishne Gowda, Director, International Centre, Mysuru.

Mr. Gowda told

The Hindu that he had spoken to the Vice-Chancellor on the proposal. The Director said the International Centre, which has academic collaborations with many foreign universities, was also planning to consult some foreign embassies on whether they were interested in supporting the proposed initiative.

The centre was recently upgraded with the idea of promoting global perspective in teaching, research and outreach programmes.

It gives support to services such as admissions, eligibility assessment, obtaining visa extension and residential permit, placements etc., to international students and faculty. Mysuru is said to be ranked fifth in drawing foreign students.

Pune tops the list followed by Hyderabad and Chennai.

What is remarkable about the city is the cost of living when compared to other cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai or Hyderabad.

From 263 in 2001–02, the number of international students enrolled has risen to 1,200.

“By adding more facilities, we wish to draw more students for the academic year,” Prof. Gowda said.

The University of Mysore drew around 1,200 students last year. We are making efforts to attract more in the coming academic year

Krishne Gowda,Director, International Centre