Mysore/Mysuru: Bengaluru North University Vice-Chancellor Prof. B.K. Ravi said communication skills and proper preparation methods were as important as subject knowledge for success in competitive examinations.

He was speaking after inaugurating K-SET and UGC-NET coaching classes organised by KSOU Competitive Exams Coaching Centre at Muktagangothri campus in Mysuru recently.

Stressing the importance of strong fundamentals, Prof. Ravi said knowledge was easily accessible today due to advancements in science and technology, but warned against excessive dependence on Artificial Intelligence.

“Students are increasingly skipping classes believing AI can do everything for them. Technology should be used meaningfully and purposefully,” he said.

Expressing concern over the decline in reading and writing habits, he said technology was consuming valuable time and stressed that reading remained essential for gaining knowledge and career growth.

He also noted that fewer candidates were appearing for K-SET and UGC-NET examinations and called for greater efforts to encourage students to take up the exams.

Administrative Training Institute (ATI) Joint Director R. Sathyashri said time management was key to success. She urged students to avoid wasting time on mobile phones and unnecessary discussions and instead focus on academics and skill development.

KSOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sharanappa V. Halse, Registrar Prof. S.K. Naveen Kumar, Registrar (Evaluation) C.S. Anand Kumar, Academic Dean Prof. M. Ramanatham Naidu, Dean (Academics) N.R. Chandregowda and Study Centre Co-ordinator Jainahalli Sathyanarayangowda were present.