Drawbacks of National Institute of Technology, Calicut: An Insider's View

When considering National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut as an academic destination, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of both its strengths and potential drawbacks. As a current student at NIT Calicut, I can offer personal insights into areas that may need improvement, which could help prospective students make an informed decision.

1. Location and Access to Urban Amenities

NIT Calicut is located in a relatively remote part of Kerala, which could limit access to urban amenities, entertainment, and job opportunities compared to institutes situated in major cities. This might be a disadvantage for students looking for easy access to all these resources.

2. Limited Infrastructure and Facilities

The infrastructure at NIT Calicut has seen some improvements, but certain facilities fall short of expectations. For example, the dormitories lack proper amenities such as well-maintained gardens, indoor games facilities, and common areas. Wi-Fi is also unstable and sometimes absent, leading to a subpar internet experience, which is essential for academic and personal use.

3. Variation in Faculty Quality

The quality of faculty can vary greatly among departments. While some professors are highly experienced and knowledgeable, others may not be as effective in teaching or mentoring. This inconsistency can impact the overall learning experience for students.

4. Competitive Academic Environment

The academic environment at NIT Calicut can be quite competitive and stressful. Students often face high workloads and pressure, which can lead to burnout and stress. This competitive atmosphere may not appeal to all students.

5. Limited Extracurricular Activities

NIT Calicut offers fewer opportunities for extracurricular activities and clubs compared to larger universities. This can limit students' chances for personal development and holistic growth outside academics.

6. Connectivity Issues and Transportation

Transportation and connectivity to major cities can be challenging, making it difficult for students to travel for internships or leisure. This logistical issue can be inconvenient and limit students' flexibility and freedom.

7. Academic Challenges and Examinations

The academic challenges at NIT Calicut are notable. The exam papers are among the toughest among NITs and IITs, and the evaluation process is even more stringent, especially for ECE. Furthermore, the conversion of GPA to percentage is not as favorable, which can affect students' overall performance.

Personal Experiences and Drawbacks

Based on my personal experiences, there are several other drawbacks at NIT Calicut:

Corruption in Infrastructure Management: There is significant corruption in the management of infrastructure, leading to inadequate facilities such as poorly maintained hostels and a lack of basic amenities like proper Wi-Fi and carrom boards. Campuses have a pool of funds that could be used for amenities like carrom boards, chess boards, and TVs, but they are not allocated. Instead, the funds seem to be misused due to corrupt practices. Deficient Gym Facilities: The department of physical education has virtually ceased to exist, leaving students with no proper gym facilities. This can limit their ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle and engage in sports. Inadequate Drainage System: The drainage system is poorly designed, leading to a sewage-like smell in hostels, particularly in G hostel, which is built near a sewage treatment plant. This is unacceptable and should be rectified to maintain a hygienic environment. Poor Computer Center and Outdated Resources: The computer center is in a pitiable state, using outdated CPU’s and software. The resource allocation is also highly inadequate, with only a few hundred computers for an entire college, leading to frequent conflicts and limited availability. Insufficient Library Resources: The library is a mere formality, containing mainly obsolete books, making it difficult for students to access up-to-date information. The digital resources available online are preferred over the physical ones. Arbitrary Attendance Policies: The attendance policy is counterproductive and often not enforced consistently. It does not necessarily improve learning, as many students manage to perform well without attending classes.

Although some drawbacks may be relevant to all universities to a certain extent, the collective of these challenges presents specific issues at NIT Calicut that might impact the student experience.