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In his speech, Vijayan also underlined Kerala’s progress in the higher education sector, mentioning several important structural changes.
Vijayan made the remarks after inaugurating an international conference on next generation higher education organized by the state higher education department. (File Image:X)
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday accused the Center and the University Grants Commission of “attempting to destabilize” higher education institutions, and highlighted the latest UGC draft rules as a prime example.
He said the rules, which “endanger the autonomy” of state universities, undermine the independence granted to them by Acts made by elected legislative assemblies.
Vijayan made the remarks after inaugurating an international conference on next generation higher education organized by the state higher education department here.
During his address, the CM clarified that the state has no opposition to fixing minimum qualifications for teacher appointments or similar matters, and it fully adheres to such rules.
However, it is unacceptable for the UGC to “overstep its bounds in this manner”, he said, adding that most universities are funded by state resources with minimal central contribution.
“It is worrying and disappointing to see that the central government and the UGC are adopting an approach aimed at destabilizing these institutions under the state government,” he said.
“A prime example of this is the latest UGC rules, which threaten the autonomy of state universities.” The Left veteran also urged the Central government and the UGC to respect the autonomy of universities and the rights of state governments in matters related to education.
“The actions taken by the UGC and the Central Government fail to recognize that these efforts may lead to the collapse of a publicly funded higher education system that is efficient, ultimately paving the way for more private educational institutions.” Vijayan also said that such efforts not only harm public universities but also destroy the credibility of the UGC.
Days after the CM criticized the ‘Draft UGC Regulations 2025’, he stepped up his attack against the UGC, claiming that they take away the rights of states to appoint vice-chancellors and provide uncontrolled powers to vice-chancellors.
The draft of the UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025 was released last week.
According to the Union Education Ministry, the draft guidelines are aimed at giving universities flexibility in the appointment and promotion of teachers and academic staff in their institutions.
In his speech, Vijayan also underlined Kerala’s progress in the higher education sector, mentioning several important structural changes.
He said, at a time when the Kerala government is trying to transform the state into a hub of higher education in the country, this conference assumes greater importance.
The CM said that despite facing financial challenges, the state government has consistently ensured that funds earmarked for the higher education sector remain secure.
(This story has not been edited by AyraNews24x7 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI,
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Kochi [Cochin]India
