KPT, Mangaluru to celebrate 75th diamond jubilee in Nov

Mangaluru: The Karnataka (Govt) Polytechnic, Mangaluru, known for providing quality training to students and preparing them as proficient technicians to meet the demands of industry, services, and self-employment, is gearing up for its 75th diamond jubilee celebrations in Nov.
As a tribute to the institution, and to commemorate the occasion, the alumni have initiated a project to construct an auditorium within the campus, adjacent to the main administration block, at an estimated cost of Rs 3.5 crore.
According to Harisha Shetty, principal, the polytechnic has been serving the technical educational needs of meritorious and underprivileged students from coastal Karnataka and other regions of the country, since its establishment in 1945.
The jubilee celebrations, originally planned for 2021, but postponed due to the pandemic, will feature a weeklong programme, including a Karnataka state-level sports meet, a global alumni meet, and a gathering of former and retired staff members.
It is estimated that around 20,000 students have graduated from this institution, and are currently employed in various parts of the world. The alumni association has registered 6,000 members to date, with notable alumni including former minister K Abhayachandra Jain and Gururaj Shetty Gantihole, MLA of the Byndoor constituency.
Started with two courses
Established during the Second World War era, the college initially offered electrical and mechanical courses. It was first situated near Pandeshwar, and later relocated to its current 21-acre campus. Presently, the institute provides eight courses, with polymer technology being a highly sought-after programme. KPT also offers continuing education opportunities to adults in the field of technical education, through various non-formal, need-based courses.
C Sathya was the first principal, and the institute has seen 62 principals to date. Currently, the campus has 1,562 students, including 238 girls, and provides hostel facilities. In addition to imparting education, the institute serves as a nodal agency for state and central government schemes, such as the PM Vishwakarma scheme.