Action against hostel wardens who fail to visit regularly, warns Tangadagi

Mysuru: Karnataka Minister for Kannada and Culture and Backward Classes Welfare Shivaraj S Tangadagi has warned that hostel wardens who fail to regularly visit the facilities and attend to students’ problems will face disciplinary action, including suspension.

The minister issued the warning during a surprise inspection of the boys’ and girls’ hostels run by the Backward Classes Welfare Department at Kuvempu Nagar here on Wednesday. Tangadagi personally inspected the hostel rooms, kitchen, food arrangements, drinking water facilities, toilets, library and other basic amenities provided to students. He also interacted with students and sought their feedback on the facilities, food and cleanliness.

The minister directed officials to ensure that students are provided nutritious and quality food every day and said there should be no compromise on the quality of meals. He also warned that negligence in hostel maintenance, cleanliness or basic facilities would not be tolerated.“Wardens must discharge their duties keeping the welfare of students in mind. It is their responsibility to ensure that the facilities provided by the government reach students properly,” Tangadagi said.

 He said wardens should eat with the students from time to time to understand the quality of food being served. Since many students stay away from their parents for months for their education, wardens should take responsibility for them and act like guardians, he added.

Tangadagi also stressed the need to give greater attention to student safety and health. He instructed officials to ensure regular medical check-ups and timely distribution of hygiene kits.He warned that action would be taken against those responsible if any negligence was found in the distribution of hygiene kits.

During the inspection, the minister sent the wardens out of the room before interacting with students to obtain their feedback directly. He asked the students about the facilities, food, cleanliness and other issues at the hostel.

Officials also informed the minister about the proposed ‘Vidya Vahini’ programme aimed at improving students’ academic performance. Under the initiative, senior students will be encouraged to provide tuition and academic support to PUC students in subjects where they require additional help.