Bangalore, March 27 (NationPress) In a decisive action against inadequate para-medical colleges, Karnataka's Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development Sharan Prakash Patil has instructed officials to revoke affiliations and close down institutions that do not meet essential infrastructure and teaching standards.

During a review meeting of the state para-medical board held at Vikasa Soudha on Thursday, officials reported concerning deficiencies in several private colleges. Instances included colleges operating in cramped spaces with insufficient facilities—one institution had only one microscope for hundreds of students, while another lacked proper lighting.

Minister Patil stressed that many private institutions present a deceptively optimistic view while seeking approval but fall short of delivering quality education once authorized, all while charging exorbitant fees. Of the 566 para-medical colleges in the state, 529 are privately managed, accommodating 22,256 students in the 2024-25 academic year. Private colleges charge Rs 20,000 annually for a three-year course, in contrast to Rs 8,500 for government institutions.

Inspections disclosed that over ten colleges had unlawfully transferred students to other institutions without the para-medical board's consent. Several institutions were also flagged for failing to provide the necessary teaching and training for their enrolled courses.

“Shut down such colleges without hesitation. We must convey a strong message to these institutions,” the minister directed, while also ensuring that students affected by regulatory actions would be relocated to more credible institutions.

The para-medical stream in Karnataka provides various diploma courses, including medical laboratory technology (DMLT), diploma in medical imaging technology (DMIT), diploma in health inspector (DHI), diploma in medical records technology (DMRT), diploma in operation theatre and anaesthesia technology (DOT and AT), diploma in dialysis technology (DDT), diploma in ophthalmic technology (DOT), diploma in dental mechanics (DDM), and diploma in dental hygiene (DDH).

Successful candidates from these programs are qualified for positions in hospitals, medical and dental colleges, primary health centers, and clinical laboratories at the district and taluk levels.

This initiative aims to protect the quality of para-medical education and ensure that students receive adequate training for their future careers in the healthcare sector, the Minister stated.

Principal Secretary Mohammed Moshin, Director of medical education B.L. Sujatha Rathod, and special officer of the Para-Medical Board Vijay Kumar briefed the minister during the meeting.