This story is from November 22, 2020

Data recharge for online classes pinches guest lecturers in Belagavi

Hard-up guest lecturers associated with the Rani Channamma University (RCU) in Belagavi are finding it difficult to buy mobile data packs for conducting regular online classes. They had lost paying gigs after the university and colleges affiliated with it shut down in March, and they started working again only in October, when online classes for varsity students were launched.
Data recharge for online classes pinches guest lecturers in Belagavi
Guest lecturers had no income for nearly eight months
BELAGAVI: Hard-up guest lecturers associated with the Rani Channamma University (RCU) in Belagavi are finding it difficult to buy mobile data packs for conducting regular online classes. They had lost paying gigs after the university and colleges affiliated with it shut down in March, and they started working again only in October, when online classes for varsity students were launched.
Wi-Fi problems at RCU have forced the guest lecturers to frequently recharge their mobile data, which they cannot afford in their current financial state.
Though on-campus teaching resumed on November 17, many students have opted for virtual lessons because of Covid-19 concerns.
A lecturer takes two to three classes every day, with each session lasting for 45 to 60 minutes. About 800MB of data is used up per session and about 2GB in a day.
“We run out of data almost every day and spend Rs 150 to Rs 200 extra on recharge each week. This may seem like a small amount, but it’s a lot for someone who didn’t have any income for nearly eight months,” said a guest lecturer, who teaches chemistry. “The university should have provided us with an internet connection for the online classes.” About 130 guest lectures work in 20 departments at RCU, which is located on the outskirts of Belagavi city. Most of them are facing financial hardship because of loss of income and work.
“The internet problem began more than a month ago. It’s embarrassing to run out of data while teaching,” said another guest lecturer.
Vice-chancellor Ramachandra Gowda issued a directive in October, asking staff to start online lessons to help students make up for lost time. A non-teaching employee at the university claimed Wi-Fi on the campus became spotty after officials failed to pay the internet bill of Rs 13 lakh on time.
Gowda told STOI that the bill was cleared a week ago. “Some wiring work is underway and the issue (internet connection) will be resolved in two to three days,” he added.
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