Kalyani University's Review and Verdict by CollegeDekho

Campus at a Glimpse

University of Kalyani is named after the first planned city of West Bengal, Kalyani, which enjoys a privileged setting. The vicinity, characterised by modern town planning and a green and pollution-free environment, provides an ideal backdrop for learning. Kalyani University has two campuses spread across 400 acres of land with rich biodiversity and a serene atmosphere. Through these campuses, KU offers a diverse array of courses under its 5 academic faculties and 37 departments. Kalyani University courses are offered through the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering, Technology & Management, Faculty of Arts and Commerce, Faculty of Education, and School of Interdisciplinary Studies. 

At a glance, Kalyani University has everything: well-structured infrastructure, adequate facilities, a wide range of courses, and experienced faculty. Along with this, the university represents a balanced gender ratio - 58% female and 42% male students. Moreover, the faculty-to-student ratio is also optimal at 1:10 to 1:40. Moreover, KU is not behind in providing considerable research facilities, collaborating with national and international institutions, and undertaking social and cultural initiatives. 

Regrettably, there’s a blot on the landscape! Kalyani University completely falls short of offering adequate internship and placement opportunities. Alumni and students alike have reported their concern of lack of industry exposure and placement opportunities at the university. 

Let’s get to the bottom of this to have a clear understanding of the University of Kalyani. 

Kalyani University NIRF Ranking 

Our Take

Kalyani University has been consistently ranked among the top 150 universities for three years by NIRF in the university category, however, in the overall category, its ranking has dropped by 50+ ranks, plunging it to be in the rank range 151-200 in 2023 as compared to last two years where it had secured a rank for itself in the top 101-150. Though we cannot deny that the university strives to improve, we also cannot ignore the fact that there is ample room for improvement overall which can improve its overall ranking.

Kalyani University Academia & Batch Size

Kalyani University offers courses at various levels, from diploma to doctorate, across a wide range of disciplines. It follows the Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) which allows students to choose courses from elective and skill enhancement categories. However, students don't feel satisfied with the curriculum of Kalyani University courses, which they say, is quite conventional. It lacks exposure to skill development and the current industry practices. A large number of students have complained about limited industry visits and no internship opportunities at the university. 

Let’s have a look at the Kalyani University batch size of 2021-22 as per the NIRF 2023 report. 

Our Take

Merely following a system won’t help students. The conventional teaching methodology may impart knowledge to students, but it lacks hands-on experience.
Though Kalyani University has implemented CBCS to provide choice-based learning and skill development, but the skilling is not visible anywhere according to various students. Furthermore, keeping up with the times and incorporating curriculum that's in sync with the changing industry needs is quite imperative. The new-age curriculum should help students develop their skills and become industry-ready. 

Kalyani University Infrastructure

Classroom:

Kalyani University has spacious and well-ventilated classrooms. Mike and projector facilities are also available.

Auditorium/ Seminar Halls/ Labs:

There are 3 AC auditoriums and multiple labs at the University of Kalyani campus. Based on students’ reviews on different platforms, the labs at KU are well-equipped and have an AC facility.  

Library:

The University of Kalyani has a huge central library with a vast collection of books. All kinds of books are available with adequate reading space at the library. 

Internet:

The Wi-Fi facility is available across the campus. However, students often face issues related to low internet speed.  

Hostel:

The vast campus of Kalyani University provides adequate accommodation space for male and female students. There are 9 hostels on KU campus, 6 for males and 3 for females. It can accommodate around 1,000 students. 

Students feel that the hostel facility at KU is up to the mark. The rooms have basic furniture, separate washrooms, and AC. The mess food is also good in taste and hygienic. Along with that, the fee structure is affordable, at INR 1,200 per month. 

Activities:

Various events and activities are organised on campus, such as seminars, workshops, and campaigns. The university conducts annual fests, reunions, orientations, convocations, and hall-day events. However, some students have reported that KU lacks in organising regular co-curricular and student club activities. 

Cafe/ Hang-out:

KU campus has 4 canteens that serve local snacks, meals, and beverages. The food quality is good, and students enjoy hanging out there. Additionally, students can explore various cafes and hangout places near the campus. 

Our Take

Taking everything into consideration, Kalyani University shines in terms of well-built infrastructure and facilities. This reflects KU’s commitment to providing a holistic environment for its students. The vast library and its facilities prove how much the university is dedicated to provide and maintain the required infrastructure. At the same time, the availability of hang-out places ensures the holistic development of students. However, some areas that warrant attention are internet speed and the conduct of regular activities. 

Kalyani University Internships and Placements 

Kalyani University Internships:

KU hasn’t published any official reports about its internship programme and opportunities. According to student reviews, the university doesn’t provide any internship opportunities. Students mainly look for internships off-campus or get help from seniors. 

Kalyani University Placements:

According to the NIRF 2023 report, Kalyani University achieved an almost 100% placement percentage in UG (4-year), PG (3-year) and PG-Integrated programmes. However, the rate settled at 68% for the PG (2-year) courses which is not that impressive. Furthermore, a large number of students have opined that the university has no role in the placement numbers and is misleading. The university did not provide sufficient placement opportunities and most of the students secured jobs on their own, but Kalyani University is taking that credit and playing with the numbers. The university's placement cell is not active, say the students 

Let’s look at the data claimed by Kalyani University for its campus placement. 

Our Take

The placement statistics may be impressive, but metrics do not tell the whole story. As per students, Kalyani University is a paper tiger in terms of offering internship and placement opportunities. The placement cell is not active as required. Students complain about inadequate training and internship opportunities. They also need to look for off-campus placements on their own. All of these paint a bad picture of the university. Therefore, the university must focus on these aspects to become an all-round higher education destination for students. 

Kalyani University Diversity & Demographics

Home State vs Other State Students:

Out of a total of 5195 students at KU, 4804 belong to the home state (West Bengal) and 391 to other states. Also, only 3 international students were enrolled in the 2022 batch. The data reflects that only 5% of students are based out of West Bengal, and the number of international admissions is poor. 

Male vs Female students:

Kalyani University exhibits a far better female gender ratio at the campus as compared to most of the higher education institutes within the state and across the country. With 58% female strength, girls outnumber the male students at the university. 

(Source: NIRF 2023 data) 

Our Take

While the university has an impressive gender representation. It is also evident that the student community of West Bengal prefers the university for their higher education. However, it disappoints with its lack of interstate and global diversity. The percentage of students from other states and countries is very low, making KU a less diverse university. 

Kalyani University Faculty/College Administration & Management

Students on Quora and other platforms have praised the faculty, administration, and management of Kalyani University. According to them, the faculty at KU is highly educated and experienced. The majority of the teachers are PhD holders, and some possess more than 20 years of experience. The faculty-to-student ratio is well-balanced, ranging from 1:10 to 1:40 depending on the class size. Also, the management and administration are helpful and supportive. 

However, a few students pointed out the need for advanced teaching methods using ICT and skill-based learning. As per them, management should offer exposure to students in terms of more activities, internships, and placements. 

Our Take

The overall faculty and management of Kalyani University are decent. The faculty-student ratio is quite satisfactory considering its status as a state-government university. However, it should implement measures to enhance teaching, learning, and exposure opportunities. 

Kalyani University Location

University of Kalyani is located at Block C, Nadia, Kalyani, West Bengal. Nadia is a sub-locality in Kalyani, which borders Bangladesh to the east. It is an urban area and well connected by road, rail, and air routes. Let’s look at the nearest transportation options. 

• Nearest Bus Stop: Kanchrapara Bus Stop (4 Km) 

• Nearest Railway Station: Kanchrapara Railway Station (6 Km)

• Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (45 Km) 

Kalyani University: Expectation vs Reality CLD Verdict!

In the bigger picture, Kalyani University offers a blend of strengths and weaknesses. Catering to over 5000 students, KU’s campus infrastructure and facilities are notably above average. The fee structure for UG and PG courses ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 50,000, which is affordable. Along with that, the faculty is experienced, and management is student-friendly. 

But there’s a downside! The internship and placement opportunities are completely lacking, resulting in a disproportionate ROI. This makes KU a good choice for undergrads looking for higher education rather than those seeking industry exposure and opportunities. 

Our Final Checklist!