Key Facts
Former Vice-Chairperson of the Kerala State Higher Education Council, Rajan Gurukkal P.M., has expressed strong criticism of the state budget's proposals for higher education. In a statement released on Friday (June 19, 2026), he asserted that there is “nothing new” in the budget for the sector. He dismissed claims of comprehensive reforms, labeling most proposals as recycled versions of ongoing schemes.
Critique of the 'Future Readiness Think Tank'
Prof. Gurukkal specifically targeted the proposal to establish a ‘Future Readiness Think Tank’ aimed at anticipating technological developments in higher education. He described it as an “unevolved and poorly thought-out attempt”. According to him, the proposal ignores existing initiatives such as:
- Digicol Digital enablement project – which includes advanced digital technology for learning management systems (LMS), enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for colleges, and AI-based techno-pedagogy in universities.
- K-REAP project – focused on total computerization of universities, digitized translational research, start-ups, and incubation centres.
Internationalization Efforts Already in Place
On the topic of internationalization, Prof. Gurukkal noted that the ‘Semester in Kerala’ proposal for foreign students is not new and is already part of the broader ‘Study in Kerala’ initiative. He added that the Study in Kerala is supported by the Scholar Connect app, which enables global academic networking. He further described the proposed academic tourism plans as a downgraded version of heritage tourism introduced during the first Pinarayi Vijayan-led government.
Reforms Already Implemented
Prof. Gurukkal pointed out that reforms such as credit transfer and the Academic Bank of Credits are already operational at the undergraduate level. He questioned why these were being presented as new initiatives. Additionally, he noted that international higher education fairs have been conducted in the state since 2018, and while he welcomed their continuation, he emphasized that they are not novel.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
The criticism from a former high-ranking academic official raises questions about the effectiveness and originality of the state's higher education budget. It suggests a lack of fresh vision and a reliance on repackaging existing programs. Readers should be aware that many of the so-called new proposals may already be in place, and the government may need to focus on implementation rather than rebranding.
FAQ
What did Rajan Gurukkal say about the Kerala Budget for higher education?
He said there is 'nothing new' in the budget, most proposals are ongoing schemes rephrased, and the 'Future Readiness Think Tank' is an 'unevolved and poorly thought-out attempt'.
Which existing initiatives did Gurukkal highlight as being overlooked?
He pointed to the Digicol Digital enablement project, K-REAP project, and the Scholar Connect app, which already address digitalization and internationalization.
What is the 'Semester in Kerala' proposal?
It is a proposal to attract foreign students, but Gurukkal noted it is already part of the 'Study in Kerala' initiative supported by the Scholar Connect app.
When were international higher education fairs started in Kerala?
They have been conducted since 2018, according to Gurukkal.
Source: www.thehindu.com