Review of JSS Academy of Technical Education Bangalore: A Perspective from an Engineering Graduate

I have studied at the Electronics and Communication (ECE) department of JSS Academy of Technical Education, Bangalore in 2013. My experience there was mixed, but it offered a variety of opportunities and challenges, making it a place that was both beloved and despised by its students.

Quality of Education and Placements

Despite being classified as a second-class engineering college, JSSATE Bangalore excels in providing quality education through its committed faculty. While the college aims to foster responsible citizenship and empower students for the betterment of their country, its execution often falls short. The teaching methods and interpersonal relationships can be challenging, and the overall student experience can be quite different from that of a top-tier institution. However, JSSATE does offer campus placements for students of CSE, ISE, and ECE, which can be quite beneficial.

Alternative Options

While JSSATE has its merits, there are other colleges that might be more suitable for certain branches of engineering. For example, RNSIT, GAT, or Dayanand Sagar offer competitive alternatives. The choice of college depends heavily on your entrance exam scores, but these institutions could be worth considering for a different student experience and possibly better placements.

Real Experiences: The Good and The Bad

The journey through JSSATE was not without its struggles. Some of my experiences there were notably negative, especially during the early days when the college was still situated in Jayanagar. Moving to its current campus in K L Layout didn't change the fundamental issues that plagued the institution. These issues included:

Casteism and Discrimination

JSSATE implements a rather strict and sometimes discriminatory policy, particularly in terms of caste. The principal and some staff from the dominant community of the college often wielded power in a way that marginalized other students. There were cases of students being treated unfairly, such as one who faced repeated lab exam failures due to bias from the head of department (DRS). Another instance involved a teacher who carried on an affair with a student from a different community, revealing a lack of integrity and accountability from the institution.

Teacher Quality and Student Treatment

The quality of teaching staff was a significant concern. Many of the professors and lecturers were subpar, lacking the necessary knowledge and professionalism compared to their counterparts in pre-college studies. This was further compounded by petty and vindictive behavior from some faculty members. One example involves a lecturer who deliberately tried to fail a student in lab exams in revenge for being removed from a position at another college. The management chose to leave the teacher in place, threatening the student instead, which ultimately had adverse effects on his final year academic performance.

Student Interactions and Experiences

On a more positive note, the student body and campus life had its moments. While the initial batches were often described as "paavam," meaning dull or uninteresting, things began to improve over time. The campus environment was beautiful and student-friendly, presenting a stark contrast to the internal strife. Certain faculties, particularly in CSE, IS, and EC, were hit harder by these issues, while others, like PUC and higher secondary, set a stronger foundation for learning.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges faced during my time at JSSATE, the institution offers valuable learning opportunities. For students who perform best under less pressure, it can be a good choice. However, for those who seek a more supportive and fair academic environment, exploring other options might be a wiser decision.

Keywords: JSS ATE, Bangalore Engineering, College Experience