The Kerala Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed the Private Universities Bill, paving the way for private universities to operate in the state. The Bill, which underwent scrutiny by the Subject Committee, was met with heated debates and strong opposition concerns before being passed. State Higher Education Minister R Bindu defended the Bill, stating that it was a progressive step for Kerala’s education sector. She assured that strict regulations would be in place to maintain academic standards in private universities.

However, several amendments and concerns were raised by opposition parties, particularly regarding fee structures and admission policies. Though the opposition did not reject the Bill in principle, they expressed serious reservations. Leader of Opposition (LoP) VD Satheesan pointed out concerns over how private universities would impact public universities and colleges.

“We do not oppose the Bill entirely, but we must analyse how it will affect public universities. The government must ensure that corporate education agencies, which have played a crucial role in Kerala’s education sector, get the opportunity to establish private universities. At the same time, the state should prioritize public universities and ensure that private institutions do not operate without accountability,” Satheesan stated.

Key Points On University Bill

Government Oversight in Private Universities

According to an Indian Express report, The Kerala State Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) Bill ensures government representation in the key decision-making bodies of private universities, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The Governing Council, responsible for overseeing the university’s operations and drafting its statutes, will have three government representatives among its 12 members. These include the Secretary of the Higher Education Department, another senior official, and an eminent academician nominated by the government. The university’s sponsoring body will nominate four members.

Multi-Campus Universities with Seat Reservations

The bill introduces the concept of multi-campus private universities, allowing institutions to operate across multiple locations. It also ensures that 40% of seats in each course are reserved for permanent residents of Kerala. Among these, students from SC/ST/OBC categories will be given reservations as per state policies, according to Higher Education Minister R. Bindu.

Students’ Council for Representation

To empower students, the bill mandates the formation of a Students’ Council, led by the Pro Vice Chancellor. The council will have 10 elected student representatives, including one from the SC/ST communities and at least two female students, ensuring inclusivity in decision-making.

Regulatory Body for Quality Assurance

A regulatory body, to be established by the government, will oversee teaching, research, development, and training in private universities. This ensures that institutions maintain high academic standards while fostering innovation and growth in Kerala’s higher education sector.

How Opposition Reacted

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala raised concerns about student migration from Kerala, questioning whether the new law would help curb this trend.

“Student migration is rampant in Kerala. Will this Bill help prevent it? We need a detailed study before implementing it. Simply converting existing private colleges into universities may not yield results. The government should explore the possibility of inviting global universities to set up campuses in the state. The current requirements of 10 acres of land and Rs 25 crore investment are high standards, but we need to assess if they are practical,” Chennithala remarked.

While Congress leaders sought further scrutiny, Revolutionary Marxist Party (RMP) MLA K.K. Rema strongly opposed the Bill, calling for its complete withdrawal.

“This Bill promotes the commercialization of education. It will create a situation where only the wealthy can afford higher education. The same Left government that once opposed self-financing institutions is now pushing for private universities. This is a move to privatize education,” Rema criticized.

Despite opposition concerns, Speaker A.N. Shamseer put the Bill to a voice vote, and it was passed in the Assembly.

The Bill will now require the Governor’s approval before becoming law. (ANI)