Who will lead Keralam's universities? Government begins steps to appoint permanent VCs

The Keralam government has initiated preliminary measures to appoint permanent vice-chancellors at universities across the state, Higher Education Minister Roji M John informed the state Assembly on Oct 16.

Responding to a question during Question Hour, John acknowledged that several universities continue to function without permanent vice-chancellors. He said the government has begun addressing the vacancies through initial steps toward new appointments.

The minister also raised concerns over the governor's involvement in university administration in his capacity as chancellor. He said the practice of intervening in boards of studies and university syndicates had continued for years, particularly during the previous CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) government's tenure.

"That practice continues even now, and that is a reality," John said.

Keralam government rejects allegations of ideological influence

Responding to the Opposition's charge that the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government was giving in to the Sangh Parivar's alleged saffronisation agenda in universities, John rejected the allegation.

He said the government would not permit communalisation or attempts to create ideological divisions on university campuses. His remarks came amid a political debate over university governance, the governor's role as chancellor and allegations of ideological influence in higher education institutions.

The minister also criticized the previous LDF administration over its approach to resolving university-related disputes. He said the present government would not handle such matters through confidential discussions conducted behind closed doors.

Government aims to strengthen higher education

John said the state government's broader objective was to establish Keralam as a preferred destination for higher education. He added that the administration would continue introducing and implementing programs to advance this goal.

The proposed appointments are part of the government's efforts to address the leadership gaps at universities across the state. However, the minister's Assembly statement outlined preliminary steps and did not specify a timeline for completing the appointments.

The issue of permanent vice-chancellors remains linked to wider questions concerning university administration, the chancellor's authority and the political debate over the direction of higher education in Keralam.