Calicut University first university in Kerala to go totally cashless

KOZHIKODE: The Calicut University has gone fully online for  financial transactions, the first university in the state to do so.   The system launched on Tuesday allows one to use debit card/credit card/net banking facilities for payment of fees for the varsity services. Salary, allowances etc for the  staff and contract labourers and DA/TA for delegates from outside the university have also been made online. Payment gateways have been established with over 40 banks for the purpose.

According to the finance wing, on an average eight to nine lakh transactions  take place   in the  university in a year. Three years back, the university had introduced Instant Web Payment System (CUIWPS) allowing the students to pay through ‘SBT Online’ facility.   It  also introduced ‘e-challan’ for students who don’t have SBT account.   The payment can also be made through FRIENDS Jana Sevana Kendram and Akshaya centres without any service charges.

“Calicut University, the  largest in the state covering five districts and enrolling nearly four lakh students annually,  wanted to give hassle-free services to the stakeholders.  Achieving hundred percent cashless transaction is a step closer to that aim,” said Mr K.P. Rajesh, finance officer. “The facility would be a boon to the  students from distant places like Lakshadweep,” he added. Computer centre director V.T. Madhu said that the service was getting good response from the students. “A good number of transactions were done within hours of launching the facility,” he added.