The satellite centre of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, has been facing difficulties in attracting students since its establishment seven years ago. With a capacity of over 1,000 students, the centre currently has less than 500 enrolled. Several issues, including limited hostel capacity, lack of accommodation facilities, and transportation challenges, have hindered its progress.
The Amethi satellite centre was set up in 2016 with the objective of uplifting education and promoting economic prosperity, specifically focusing on marginalized and underprivileged segments in the region. It operates within the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) campus in Amethi. The centre offers undergraduate and a few postgraduate courses, and it has 15 teachers on its faculty.
One of the main challenges faced by the centre is its geographical location. The limited hostel capacity and lack of nearby accommodation options have made it difficult for students to find suitable living arrangements. Furthermore, the centre is located 12 kilometers away from Amethi city, which lacks proper transportation connections. These factors have discouraged many students from enrolling.
The centre has also faced obstacles in terms of infrastructure development. There are litigation issues concerning the land where the centre’s premises are located, preventing new construction work from taking place. However, efforts have been made to address some of the infrastructure issues, such as electricity and water problems.
In response to the low student enrollment, the centre is seeking funding of ₹80 crore from the central public works department to further develop its facilities. Additionally, the centre has undergone departmental restructuring, aligning its departments with Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University’s main departments on the main campus.
Despite its challenges, the satellite centre of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Amethi remains dedicated to its vision of fostering innovation, advancing research, and providing various programs under the NEP 2020 scheme. Its mission is to nurture a generation of knowledgeable and ethical individuals committed to societal improvement.