Mysuru: Prof. S. Vidyashankar took charge as Vice-Chancellor of Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) from outgoing VC Prof. D. Shivalingaiah, at a simple function, held at his office in Muktagangothri campus,  in city this morning.

Prof Shivalingaiah’s three-year tenure had ended on Mar.11. However, it was extended till May 31 following the Model Code of Conduct enforced for the Lok Sabha elections.

Prof. Vidyashankar is Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bangalore Institute of Technology. He has been appointed for a period of three years with effect from May 30, 2019 or until he attains the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.

Later speaking to reporters, Prof. Vidyashankar appreciated the efforts of his predecessor for getting University Grants Commission’s (UGC) recognition besides restoring the image of KSOU. UGC had withdrawn its recognition since 2012-13 and granted it last year, after his efforts, he added.

He would give top priority to continue the programmes, courses and e-governance initiatives initiated by Prof. Shivalingaiah.  Also, he would strive hard to strengthen the distance education system to ensure higher education accessible to all, said Prof. Vidyashankar.       

He sought the cooperation of all the teaching, non-teaching staff, Board of Management of KSOU to provide the best to the students. Prof. Vidyashankar’s mother C. Lakshmidevi, Registrar Dr. B. Ramesh and others were present.