Thiruvananthapuram: At least four universities in Kerala are keen to commence four-year degree courses this academic year itself in accordance with the new pattern suggested by the University Grants Commission (UG) in line with the National Education Policy (NEP).
The various departments at the University of Kerala have already decided to begin four-year degree courses. Colleges affiliated to the University would be granted approval if they show interest in the new programme.
Meanwhile, the departments at the Kannur University too may start the four-year programme this year itself.
The Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, and the Cochin University of Science and Technology are already offering five integrated programs. They are likely to provide the option for the four-year courses too.
However, no decision has been taken in this matter at the University of Calicut. As there are only post-graduate programmes at the Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University, no decision has been reached there either.
Meanwhile, the authorities at the Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit aren’t sure whether therre would be enough takers for four-year courses.
Special academic meetings, which will be attended by higher education minister R Bindu, would be held at all the universities on the new programme.
She will be attending meetings at Mahatma Gandhi University, Kannur University, University of Calicut and University of Kerala.