THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: There will be a provision in the law to make private universities starting in Kerala into big townships. Permission will be given to construct shopping complexes, entertainment and residential centers, hospitals, schools, research centers, and workshops adjacent to the universities. With this, the area around the varsities will grow into integrated townships.
After five years, universities can start off-campus and study centers anywhere in the state. The government assesses that more areas will develop with the coming of such townships.
As per UGC guidelines, institutions that have been functioning for 20 years and have NAAC grades above 3.26 can apply for private universities. The institution should have 20 acres of land in cities or 30 acres in villages. Considering the high cost of land in Kerala, the authorities are considering bringing a relaxation in this regard. Corporate managements, trusts, and societies can also apply for private universities. There should be a 20 crore fixed investment and a 30 crore working fund. Permission would be given separately for a health university for medical courses, a technical university for engineering studies, and a law university for law studies.
There is a central directive that more health professionals can be created only if there are more institutions with private participation and that the states should be ready to allocate space for setting up better institutions in the private sector. Private varsities will offer state-of-the-art courses that guarantee employment. Private universities can also tie up with IITs and foreign universities for placement, research, and student training. This will enable students to secure placement.
Land acquisition started
Land is being acquired in various districts, including Kasaragod and Idukki, for private universities. Acres of land are being bought in undeveloped areas. Reputed educational groups, trusts, and societies from other states are planning to start private universities in the state. 40% of the total universities in the country are private universities.
Private varsities are on the rise