Kerala CM Vijayan Expresses Discontent Over UGC's New Regulations, Calls For Respect Of State Universities' Rights

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has sharply criticised the new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, calling them “concerning and disappointing.”

He accused the Union government and the UGC of adopting a strategy that threatens the autonomy of state universities. In his address at the two-day 'International Conclave on Next-Gen Higher Education,' the Chief Minister raised concerns over how the UGC's new regulations undermine the autonomy of state-run educational institutions.

“State Universities function according to acts formulated by elected legislative assemblies, and the creation of such regulations undermines this autonomy. The Union Government and the UGC should refrain from such actions and respect the autonomy of universities and the rights of state governments in matters concerning education,” Pinarayi stated.

The Chief Minister emphasised that Kerala does not oppose setting minimum qualifications for teacher appointments, adding that the government fully complies with such regulations. 

However, he expressed strong disapproval of the UGC overstepping its authority, particularly given that most state universities are funded by state resources with minimal central contributions.

Pinarayi further warned that the UGC's actions risk destabilising the publicly funded higher education system, potentially favouring the rise of private institutions.

"If these attempts continue, they will not only harm public universities but also undermine the very integrity of the UGC itself," he said.

Highlighting Kerala's commitment to transforming itself into a knowledge-driven society, the Chief Minister outlined the state's dual strategy. This includes improving employability through skill-enhancing curriculum changes and fostering research and innovation to meet local and global educational needs.

"Our goal is to make quality higher education accessible to everyone and inclusive for learners with different learning challenges and needs," he added.