Karnataka's engineering sector faces a significant challenge, with over 30,000 vacant seats across its colleges. According to data from the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and the Consortium of Medical, Engineering and Dental Colleges of Karnataka (COMEDK), the state boasts a total of 123,456 engineering seats, but a concerning 24.7% remain unfilled.
This situation is particularly pronounced in private institutions, which account for 26,402 vacant positions, while government colleges have 4,115 empty seats.
Several factors contribute to this alarming trend. Experts point to the rising fees for BTech programs, which have deterred many potential students. Additionally, an increase in the overall intake capacity of engineering colleges has not been matched by corresponding demand, resulting in surplus seats. There is also a notable shift in student preferences, with many opting for computer science and IT-related branches, leaving traditional engineering fields like mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering struggling to attract enrollments. For instance, mechanical engineering has 6,517 vacant seats, civil engineering has 5,605, and electrical engineering has 4,517 unfilled positions, while computer science and information science engineering show far fewer vacancies, at 1,415 and 2,413, respectively.
In response to these challenges, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has approved the closure of 106 engineering colleges since the 2018-19 academic year. It has reduced intake capacities at various institutions. Industry experts stress the urgency for engineering colleges to adapt curricula to meet evolving industry demands. Emphasising emerging technologies and updating infrastructure will be essential for attracting students and ensuring the growth of the engineering sector in Karnataka.
This development highlights the ongoing difficulties within the state's engineering education landscape. As the industry evolves, educational institutions must prioritize innovation and relevance, ensuring that their offerings align with both student interests and industry needs. Without significant changes, the gap between supply and demand for engineering education in Karnataka may continue to widen, ultimately impacting the region's workforce and economic development.
