Kochi: New 'deemed universities' are unlikely to get the nod in Kerala even as a few colleges that have acquired autonomy are trying to get the 'deemed' status. The bureaucrats in Kerala has reportedly taken a stand against the deemed status as it would only create financial burden for the state government without having any control.
If private universities and colleges affiliated to universities in the state acquire the 'deemed university' status the state government wouldn’t have much control over their affairs.
Colleges with 'deemed universities' status would come under the purview of central rules and regulations. However, the salary of the employees at these colleges is still paid by the state government even after acquiring autonomy. This will continue in case they become deemed universities.
The State is yet to take a decision whether the state government should continue giving the salary of the employees when the autonomous colleges acquire the status of private universities.
The Higher Education Council was earlier favourable towards giving deemed university status to autonomous colleges. But, the consensus was to allow private universities that do not cause additional financial burden for the state government. Moreover, the state government can retain control over the private universities.
The state legislative has to pass special laws in order to allow private universities. The law would also include guidelines for exerting control over these universities.
Can private universities sustain?
As lots of seats remain vacant in the various colleges and universities in the state, a clear picture about the scope of private universities would emerge only when the applications are invited.
Well-known institutions may only be able to succeed as most students prefer foreign universities or colleges outside the state for higher studies.
Now, the authorities plan to convert around 20 government colleges into constituent colleges. Then, the colleges would come under the direct control of the universities. Moreover, these colleges would get a status equivalent to a university department.