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. Published - October 16, 2026 08:31 pm IST