Sakshi Education: The Telangana government's Degree Online Services, Telangana (DOST) platform, which was introduced to streamline and unify degree admissions under a single umbrella, is reportedly under scrutiny. Despite the completion of intermediate examinations, the DOST convener's appointment is yet to be finalized, raising doubts about the continuation of this system. Higher education authorities have expressed differing opinions about the system, with some top officials openly highlighting its shortcomings.
Recent discussions have strengthened the argument for scrapping the DOST system, citing concerns over inefficiencies. Even the Council Chairman, Professor V. Balakishtha Reddy, has not provided clarity on the system's future. When asked about the appointment of the convener, he mentioned that “necessary changes are being considered, and decisions will be made based on the government's directive.”
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What is DOST?
The DOST platform was launched in 2016–17 to simplify the degree admission process by allowing students to apply to any college in Telangana through a single online application.
Key Benefits of DOST:
Single application process for all degree colleges.
Application fee of just ₹200 for applying to multiple colleges.
Online and mobile app accessibility for easy admission.
Before DOST, students had to apply to each college individually, paying separate application fees. The introduction of DOST simplified this process, saving time and money for students across the state.
Challenges and Concerns with DOST
Despite its advantages, several challenges have emerged over time:
Confusion Among Rural Students:
Students from remote rural areas often face difficulties navigating the online system.
Lack of awareness leads to errors during the application process.
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Merit-Based Seat Allotment Issues:
Seat allotment based on merit sometimes places students in colleges far from their homes, leading to vacancies despite seat confirmation.
Pressure from Private Colleges:
Private colleges are reportedly pressuring students to choose their institutions by influencing their preference options.
This manipulation results in multiple rounds of admission, causing delays in the academic calendar.
Discrepancy in Fee Structures:
Colleges under the DOST system charge reasonable fees ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000, whereas 60 private colleges that approached the court against DOST charge fees as high as ₹1.25 lakh, citing infrastructure and quality.
Degree Admissions Falling Short
Statistics reveal that of the 3.90 lakh intermediate pass-outs each year, only 45% opt for degree courses. Despite 4.62 lakh degree seats available across 1,055 colleges, over 70,000 seats remain unfilled annually. Additionally, 416 rural colleges see less than 30% admissions, while some urban colleges in Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, and Medchal record over 70% admissions.
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Why is DOST Facing Opposition?
Private degree colleges have been lobbying for the removal of DOST to regain control over fee structures and admissions. Reports suggest that intense lobbying by private institutions has led to reconsidering DOST’s continuation. These colleges argue that they should have the autonomy to determine admission processes and fee structures.
Future of DOST: Key Concerns and Proposed Changes
Although scrapping DOST is being considered, higher education authorities believe that if the online system is retained, it must undergo significant reforms to address existing loopholes. Suggestions include:
Enhancing awareness among rural students.
Ensuring merit-based allotment while considering geographic proximity.
Regulating private colleges to prevent undue influence on student preferences.
Stakeholder Opinions on DOST's Future
✅ Gauri Satish (President, Private Degree & PG Colleges Association):
“There should be a unified system for all colleges. DOST should be modified to include a transparent, standardized process that benefits all institutions.”
✅ T. Nagaraju (State Secretary, SFI):
“If there are flaws in the system, they should be addressed. However, giving complete control to private institutions may deprive marginalized communities of higher education.”
✅ Macherla Rambabu (State Secretary, ABVP):
“Any changes to DOST should be made only after consulting students and academic experts to ensure fairness and transparency.”
What Happens If DOST is Scrapped?
If DOST is discontinued:
Private colleges will regain control over admissions and fees.
Marginalized students may face challenges accessing affordable higher education.
The streamlined online system may be replaced by a decentralized, chaotic admission process.
DOST has undoubtedly revolutionized the degree admission process in Telangana. However, addressing its flaws and implementing necessary reforms is essential rather than dismantling the system entirely. A balanced approach that ensures affordable, accessible, and quality education for all is the need of the hour.
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