The Kerala Higher Education Minister, R Bindu, has defended the Left government’s decision to allow private universities in the state, emphasizing that it aligns with their vision to transform Kerala into a global higher education hub. She highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening public universities while ensuring the private sector plays a role in higher education development.
Strengthening Public Universities
Over the past four years, the Pinarayi Vijayan government has invested Rs 6,000 crore to enhance the quality and infrastructure of public universities. Addressing the Kerala State Assembly, Bindu stated that this investment aims to elevate public institutions to international standards before integrating private universities into the system.
The Kerala State Private Universities Bill, 2025
While presenting the Kerala State Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) Bill, 2025, Bindu explained that the initiative was initially proposed in 2022 but was put on hold to prioritize public universities. Now, with substantial improvements in the sector, the government is confident in introducing private universities through a regulated framework.
Key Regulations for Private Universities
The government has established strict guidelines to regulate private universities, ensuring they operate within a structured legal framework:
- A minimum of 10 acres of land is required for setting up a private university.
- A Rs 25 crore regulatory fund must be deposited.
- The institutions must comply with the guidelines set by regulatory bodies like AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education).
- 40% of seats must be reserved for permanent residents of Kerala.
- Existing reservation norms will be followed, with SC/ST students receiving fee concessions and scholarships.
- The state government will have representation in the governance structure, including one nominee in the executive council and three in the academic council.
Ensuring Democratic Rights and Quality Education
The minister assured that students, teachers, and staff would have their democratic rights protected, and grievance redressal mechanisms would be in place. She emphasized that the Bill balances private sector investment and social justice, preventing any form of exploitation.
Opposition Criticism and Government’s Response
Opposition members from the United Democratic Front (UDF) criticized the move, questioning its impact on public education. In response, Bindu accused the UDF of neglecting public universities during their tenure and criticized their past attempts to invite foreign players into Kerala’s education sector, describing it as an effort to bring in “third-rate foreign universities.”
She also dismissed concerns about potential violations of University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, affirming that the Bill aligns with all necessary guidelines. Additionally, she reassured that gender-related concerns raised in the opposition’s arguments have been addressed appropriately.
Next Steps
Speaker A N Shamseer announced that the Bill would be taken up for further consideration on Tuesday. If passed, Kerala will see a major shift in its higher education landscape, with regulated private universities coexisting alongside strengthened public institutions.
Stay tuned for further updates on this significant development in Kerala’s education sector.