In a significant move to reform higher education, the Kerala government has introduced the Kerala State Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) Bill, 2025, in the state assembly. The bill aims to permit the establishment of private universities under strict regulations, ensuring quality and accessibility in higher education.
Under the proposed law, only reputable sponsoring bodies with substantial experience in the education sector will be eligible to set up private universities. To maintain financial stability, applicants must possess the required land as per regulatory guidelines and deposit a corpus fund of ₹25 crore in the state treasury.
A key highlight of the bill is the 40% reservation for students from Kerala, ensuring that local students benefit from these institutions. Additionally, all major appointments must comply with the University Grants Commission (UGC) and state regulations, maintaining academic integrity and standards.
Higher Education Minister R. Bindu emphasized that the initiative aligns with Kerala’s vision of becoming an international higher education hub. With a ₹6,000 crore investment dedicated to strengthening public universities, the government aims to create a balanced ecosystem where both public and private institutions can thrive, offering world-class education opportunities.
