KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that while Kerala's higher education sector and universities progress along the path of excellence, the central government and the UGC are attempting to destabilize them. Speaking after inaugurating the Higher Education Conclave, he alleged that the UGC was crossing all limits, and its regulations posed a threat to the autonomy of universities, raising concern and disappointment.
"Private universities operating across the country without adhering to UGC rules will negatively impact the functioning of public universities. The UGC's regulations undermine the autonomy of universities. The state has no objection to setting minimum qualifications for appointments of faculty and other measures. It will fully comply with such regulations. However, the UGC crossing its limits is unacceptable," The CM said.
"In the last financial year, Rs 1,830 crore was allocated to ten universities in Kerala, while Rs 3,000 crore was allocated for other educational institutions. Recommendations made by three commissions established for comprehensive reform in higher education are being implemented. Programs such as the four-year undergraduate program are part of these reforms," the Chief Minister added.
Higher Education Minister Dr R Bindu presided over the event, while Finance Minister KN Balagopal was the chief guest. Vice Chairman of the State Planning Board, Prof VK Ramachandran and Principal Secretary for Higher Education Dr Ishita Roy spoke at the event. Nobel laureate Prof. Ada Yonath, State Higher Education Council Vice Chairman Prof Rajan Gurukkal, Member Secretary Dr Rajan Varughese, CUSAT Vice Chancellor Prof. M Junaid Bushiri, and former Vice Chancellor Prof PG Sankaran were among the attendees.