St Aloysius to introduce Tulu language in undergraduate courses

Mangaluru: In a step towards preserving regional culture and heritage, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) has announced the inclusion of Tulu as a language option in its undergraduate courses starting from the next academic year. The move makes St Aloysius the first deemed-to-be university in the region to offer Tulu as a subject.

The university joins Alva’s College, Moodbidri, and Dr. P Dayananda Pai – P Satisha Pai Government First Grade College, Carstreet, which have been offering Tulu as part of their UG curriculum for the past three to four years. These courses, approved by Mangalore University, run for the first four semesters and aim to familiarize students with Tulu traditions, folklore, literature, and cultural practices.

Mahalinga Bhat K, Head of the Kannada Department at St Aloysius University, shared that the syllabus will initially align with the existing structure followed by the other two colleges. However, the university plans to gradually adapt and innovate the curriculum through its board of studies.

“Tulu will be available as an option for students across all streams, including commerce, humanities, and science,” said Bhat. The syllabus will cover a wide range of topics, including Tulu traditions, folklore, proverbs, poems, and stories. Students can choose Tulu alongside other language options like Kannada, Hindi, Konkani, and French.

The initiative reflects the university’s commitment to ensuring that the Tulu language and its rich cultural heritage are passed on to future generations.

Jayakar Bhandary, Principal of Dr. P Dayananda Pai – P Satisha Pai Government First Grade College, noted that their institution has successfully offered Tulu as a subject for the past four years, with around 80 students currently enrolled.