Bhubaneswar, Jan. 25: The department of higher education is planning to set up a project-monitoring unit to guide colleges and universities in the state while applying for and utilising the grants of University Grants Commission (UGC).

“Colleges and universities in the state have failed to successfully tap UGC resources to fund their development activities,” said a senior officer of the department.

Of the Rs 2,106 lakh sanctioned to the various institutions during 2011-12, only Rs 205 lakh have been spent. “This has raised problems for the department during the submission of utilisation reports,” said the officer.

“Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka have been able to tap funds worth crores. With the cell in place, our aim will be to tap the maximum funds possible,” added the officer.

The cell will also help guide college authorities on utilising the funds to the maximum within a stipulated time, so that the state can benefit out of it.

Most institutions do not follow proper procedures, while seeking grants. The new cell will help these institutions prepare project documents in a professional manner.

“It’s usually a difficult process to apply for projects. Normally, colleges apply for development funds for renovation, building hostels, increasing the capacity of colleges, resource centres and libraries,” said Suresh Patnaik, principal, BJB Autonomous College.

“For this, colleges are required to apply with details, the blueprint and measurements, which are not easy for an academician. Fortunately, we have some technical people and manage with it, but most colleges face difficulties,” he said.

“The state government is not in a position to fund development activities and the colleges should make use of the available UGC funds. The department mostly takes care of the salary of the faculties,” said the senior officer, adding that experts at the unit will help colleges prepare professional project proposals, so that they can receive the funding and take up development work.