Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College: A Legacy of Quality Education
Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College stands as a beacon of educational excellence, consistently providing quality education to generations of youth for over 60 years. The institution has grown steadily, expanding its reach and offerings to encompass a diverse range of academic programs under one roof. This remarkable journey is a testament to its commitment to nurturing talent and fostering holistic development.
The genesis of Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College lies in the vision of establishing a center for higher education for students in the Pollachi and Udumalpet Taluks. This aspiration led to the formation of the “Pollachi Kalvi Kazhagam” in 1957, an organization spearheaded by eminent personalities like Shri S.P. Nallamuthu Gounder as President and Arutchelvar Dr. N. Mahalingam as Secretary. The organization’s unwavering commitment, coupled with the keen interest of Shri C. Subramaniam, former Minister of Finance, culminated in the establishment of the college in Pollachi.
On the auspicious day of July 12, 1957, the college officially opened its doors, with Shri S.P. Nallamuthu Gounder, the Chief Donor, presiding over the inaugural ceremony alongside Arutchelvar Dr. N. Mahalingam. The college commenced operations on a sprawling 26-acre campus, initially accommodating 160 students in the Pre-University Course. This marked the beginning of a remarkable educational journey, punctuated by consistent growth and expansion.
- Early Milestones:
- 1957: College Inauguration with Pre-University Course.
- 1959: Upgraded to a Degree College.
- 1975: Introduction of Co-education.
- 1976: Implementation of Semester System for all Degree Courses.
- 1979: Blossomed into a Premier Institution offering Post Graduate Programs.
The institution’s continuous evolution is marked by several key developments. The introduction of co-education in 1975, followed by the semester system for all degree courses in 1976, demonstrates the college’s adaptability and commitment to modern educational practices. The year 1979 saw the college establish itself as a premier post-graduate institution, further solidifying its reputation for academic excellence.
The college celebrated its Silver Jubilee in February 1984, commemorating 25 years of dedicated service to the educational landscape. Another significant milestone was achieved in 1987, when the University Grants Commission (UGC) conferred autonomous status upon the college, granting it greater flexibility in academic administration. That same year, the college pioneered the inclusion of Value Education through the “Ethics and Culture” component for all UG Programs, demonstrating its commitment to character development.
- Key Developments:
- 1984: Silver Jubilee Celebrations.
- 1987: Awarded Autonomy by the UGC.
- 1987: Introduced “Ethics and Culture” Value Education for UG programs.
- 1994: UGC offers Vocationalisation of degree programs in select departments.
- 1990s: Established internet and intranet facilities for all staff and building access.
- 2004: Implementation of Choice Based Credit System (CBCS).
Further enhancing its academic offerings, the college embraced vocational training with the support of the UGC in 1994. Recognizing the importance of technology, the college equipped its buildings and staff rooms with internet and intranet facilities, creating a tech-enabled learning environment. In 2004, the college adopted the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS), offering students greater flexibility in selecting courses.
The consistent pursuit of excellence led to the college being awarded the ISO 9001:2000 Certification by TUV, a testament to its quality management systems. The institution’s commitment to quality was further acknowledged when the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) awarded it an ‘A’ grade in March 2007. This was a particularly special year, as Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years of service with grand festivities and traditional fervour.
- Recognition and Growth:
- ISO 9001:2000 Certification (TUV)
- 2007: NAAC awarded ‘A’ Grade
- 2007: Golden Jubilee Celebrations.
Today, Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College has evolved into a premier postgraduate teaching and research institution, offering a broad spectrum of 60 diverse programs including UG, PG, research programs, and five certificate courses. The college boasts a strong academic community, comprising 262 staff members and 5416 students.
The opening of new centers such as the Dr. N. Mahalingam Centre for Research and Development, the Nallamuthu Gounder Centre for Commerce and Management Studies, and the Sri S.P. Krishnaswamy Gounder Science Block highlights the institution’s continued growth and commitment to providing holistic educational opportunities. The steadfast guidance and support of the college’s leadership, including Patron Arutchelvar Dr. N. Mahalingam, President Dr. B.K. Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, Vice-President Dr. S. Murugaiyan, Secretary Shri M.Balasubramaniam, and Treasurer Shri S. Sivakumar, has been critical to its success.
- Current Landscape:
- Offers 60 UG, PG, research and certificate programs.
- 262 staff members and 5416 students.
- New Centers: Dr. N. Mahalingam Centre for Research and Development, Nallamuthu Gounder Centre for Commerce and Management Studies, Sri S.P. Krishnaswamy Gounder Science Block.
The college’s academic excellence, high research potential, noteworthy extension services, and valuable placement assistance are a result of the symbiotic relationship between the enlightened management, the enriched faculty, and the energetic student body. Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College stands as a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and the pursuit of quality education, a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.