What attracts foreign students to PU: Gandhi, his philosophy

If the number of international students enrolling for the PhD course on Gandhian Studies at Panjab University are an indication, it seems the Mahatma's thoughts continue to inspire students across the globe but not in the non-violent crusader's home country.

Over the last eight years, while four foreign students - three from Iran and one from Thailand - completed their PhD's from PU's Department of Gandhian Studies, another four enrolled for the doctorate degree in 2010. There are, at present, eight foreign students pursuing their PhD from the department.

Also, a Korean couple and a student from Thailand completed their M Phil degrees from the Department, recently. While there has been an increase in the number of foreign students showing interest in joining the Department, records also reveal that nearly 45 per cent of the students (excluding foreign students) have opted out of the final examination in the last six years.

While the general perception is that most choose the course to avail hostel and library facilities, department officials do not share this view. "It is correct that most of the students who take admission apply for the hostel facility. However, a limited number of hostel seats are allotted. Yet, there are many who pursue the course without getting the hostel facility," Department Chairperson Professor M L Sharma told Newsline.

Of the 29 students who had enrolled for the course in 2010, 13 dropped out before the first-year examination. For the 2009-2011 batch, only 21 of 29 took the first year examination and the number dipped further before the end of the fourth semester.

This year, nearly 200 students have applied for the 29 seats in the department's MA course. Meanwhile, five Iranians have applied for their research visa this year to study in the Department. As they get fellowships from their country for research, they do not have to appear for the entrance test.

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