Keralam examining implications of granting deemed-to-be university status for aided colleges

Higher Education Minister Roji M. John informed the Assembly that the government was studying the administrative and academic implications of granting deemed-to-be university status to aided colleges in the state.

Mr. John, in a written reply to a question raised by former Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal, added that the government is yet to take a final decision on granting deemed-to-be university status.

The response does not provide further clarification to other queries on possible scenarios like whether the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations would apply to such institutions, and if deemed-to-be universities would come under Central control and that the State’s interests, including in matters relating to syllabi, might not be adequately protected in the process.

In a separate written reply concerning applications made to establish foreign private universities, the Minister said a proposal to establish a campus of the United Nations University in the State was under the government’s consideration.