Private universities: Solution to Kerala's higher education crisis?

In most civilised countries, universities prioritise the interests of students and enjoy independent administrative rights. Government systems there do not stifle them with restrictive decisions. However, in India, politicians' desire to control everything weakens universities. In Kerala, power struggles between universities and politicians are constant, regardless of which government is in power. As a result, the state's universities have lost their prestige and are becoming institutions that no one wants to attend.

Last year, 40% of undergraduate seats in Kerala's colleges remained vacant because students did not take admission. This is not due to a lack of students who passed Plus Two exams. Instead, the outdated syllabi and lack of modern courses keep students away. Many students leave their families to seek admission in foreign universities, while others look for better study centres outside Kerala. Unfortunately, no one has found a solution to the crisis engulfing the state's universities.

In response to numerous complaints, the Left government has decided to allow private universities in Kerala. This is a commendable and positive step. However, it is important to note that there are opponents to this move. Additionally, the private university bill includes provisions that give the ruling government an advantage in sharing power. Despite Higher Education Minister R. Bindu's attempts to deny this in the assembly, the truth remains unchanged. The government rejected the opposition's demand to send the private university bill to the select committee and instead sent it to the subject committee. Minister Bindu is relieved that private universities will not replace public universities. This may be true, as only those with enough financial means can afford the high costs of private universities.

To save ordinary students from this situation, the government should work to bring public universities up to par with private universities in terms of quality of education and course structure. This is the way to achieve equality of opportunity. The government should impose only general restrictions on the new private universities. Over twenty institutions have expressed interest in starting private universities, offering modern courses that ensure employment for the youth. These courses will impart job skills during the study period, with campus placements being a major attraction. It is hoped that when private universities begin operating next academic year, local students will no longer need to search for better study centres elsewhere.