'Late bloomer'; Govt to roll red carpet for private universities in Kerala

The stage is finally set for private universities in Kerala. Although private universities have been functioning in other states for a long time, the skewed mindset of politicians here stymied such reforms. Ironically, the same CPM leaders who once protested against these reforms are now at the zenith of powers in the state.

Whatever it may be, the long-awaited introduction of private universities will give solace to Malayali students, who were hitherto forced to travel to other states searching for higher education options. Thousands of students from Kerala are currently seeking admission to private universities abroad.

The private university bill, approved by the cabinet on Monday, will be introduced in the assembly this week. The visitor post, a controversial provision in the draft bill, has been removed from the bill approved by the cabinet. The visitor clause was abandoned due to the uncompromising opposition of the CPI, the second major party in the Front. The provision in the bill suggested the minister of higher education hold the post of visitor. Private universities operating in other states will also be allowed to operate here subject to UGC provisions.

The bill stipulates that 40 per cent of the seats in courses in private universities should be reserved for Malayalee students. The existing reservation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the state will also remain the same. Private universities are free to make decisions on admissions and fees without government control.

A high sum of Rs 25 crores should be submitted to apply for private universities. If starting a multi-campus, ten acres of land is also required. Private universities violating the norms and conditions are subject to a six-month notice to terminate their operations. Government regulations also apply in administrative matters. The governing body will also have government representatives. When starting the courses related to various departments, the secretaries of the respective departments should be present in the university governing body.

The provision that the highest post in private university will be that of a visitor has also been changed from the draft bill. The amendment was made on the ground that it was not proper to give the Visitor sovereign power over all administrative matters, including the appointment of the Chancellor. UGC rules on appointments are also applicable to private universities. There will be no ban on starting off-campuses.

It is expected that the introduction of private universities will bring qualitative changes to the academic prospects of Kerala. The higher education field will also benefit from the move. Even those who turned their backs on the idea of ​​autonomous colleges will become advocates of private universities. The flow of Malayali students to other countries in search of better educational facilities can also be brought down to an extent.

This reform was long overdue. There are many in Kerala and abroad ready to invest heavily in the education sector. A great opportunity awaits them.