Keralam to set up dedicated nursing university, increase seats by 50%

The Keralam government announced a dedicated nursing university and a 50% increase in seats. The initiative seeks to make nursing education affordable while strengthening the healthcare workforce.New Delhi,Nov 12, 2026 14:19 ISTThe Keralam government has announced plans to establish a dedicated nursing university as part of its efforts to strengthen nursing education infrastructure in the state. Chief Minister VD Satheesan shared the decision in a post on X on Wednesday, outlining the government's plans to expand opportunities for students pursuing nursing courses.In his post, Satheesan said, "While inaugurating the State Conference of the Kerala Government Nurses Union in Thiruvananthapuram, I announced our Government’s decision to establish a dedicated Nursing University in Keralam and increase nursing seats across the State by 50%, without compromising academic standards or the quality of education."The state, which has a well-established education system and high literacy levels, is looking to expand access to professional education through this initiative.The proposed university and increase in nursing seats are expected to benefit students who currently travel to other states to pursue nursing courses. The Chief Minister also highlighted the financial burden faced by many families when students seek nursing education outside Keralam. GOVERNMENT AIMS TO MAKE NURSING EDUCATION MORE ACCESSIBLEExplaining the need for the proposed university, Satheesan said thousands of students from Keralam travel to other states every year to pursue nursing courses. Many spend between 15 lakh and 20 lakh on their education."Our objective is to expand opportunities within Keralam, make quality nursing education more accessible and affordable, and enable more students to pursue their aspirations closer to home," the Chief Minister wrote. Keralam has a significant presence in the nursing workforce, with nurses from the state working across India and in several countries, particularly in West Asia, where demand for healthcare professionals remains high.The Chief Minister also said the government would review the existing regulatory framework governing nursing education. The proposed changes are expected to support the expansion of educational institutions while ensuring that courses meet national standards."Our focus is on strengthening Keralam's healthcare workforce, expanding educational opportunities and ensuring that quality healthcare remains accessible to all," Satheesan said.The proposed university and increase in nursing seats are part of the state's efforts to expand professional education opportunities and reduce the need for students to move outside Keralam for nursing studies.- Ends