Kerala - Kochi   

Maharaja's College to get a facelift

Staff Reporter

Authorities seek help from State Department of Archaeology

KOCHI: The century-old buildings of Maharaja's College will soon get a face lift with the college development council seeking the support of the State Department of Archaeology in preserving the architectural marvel.

Experts of the department will chalk out a detailed programme to conserve the main buildings on the campus. The proposed renovation will be done without changing the traditional architectural style.

Asked about the development programmes, Augustin A. Thomas, Principal of the college, said that the priority would be to restoration works. The college development council will hold discussions with the Archaeology Department on ways to protect the structure, Prof. Thomas said. The Public Works Department will repair the damaged buildings and classrooms. A sum of Rs.15 lakhs has been earmarked for the initial stage of the project which is to be completed within three months.

The dilapidated rooms in the men's hostel will be renovated. The college development council have sought financial assistance from the elected represe ntatives in Ernakulam. Prof. Tho mas said that the council will seek MP's fund for the renovation of hostels. Library automation, another major work, will also be implemented soon. As many as three lakh books are available at the main library and department libraries here. The college authorities plan to offer international journals online to students. In the coming days, the library too will sport a new look. The new additions include a reprographic centre, a reference and archives section and internet connectivity. The networking of various departments on the campus will facilitate the sharing of resources.

Meanwhile, the college has begun work in connection with the proposed visit of experts from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). The team will visit the campus in December. The college had applied for re-accreditation after it received a three-star rating from the NAAC. In its assessment, the council had stated that the college lacked proper infrastructure facilities. The Government has now sanctioned Rs.35 lakhs to improve the infrastructure. The NAAC has given Rs.3 lakhs.

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