The minister pointed out that the newly established laboratory complexes at Kerala University and MG University are now the largest in South India.

The minister pointed out that the newly established laboratory complexes at Kerala University and MG University are now the largest in South India.

The minister pointed out that the newly established laboratory complexes at Kerala University and MG University are now the largest in South India.

Kochi: Kerala has achieved significant progress in its higher education sector with projects worth Rs 6,000 crore implemented over the past four years, Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice R Bindu announced on Saturday.

Speaking at a press conference, the minister highlighted the state’s efforts to elevate higher education to global standards, reported PTI. She revealed that Rs 2,000 crore was allocated exclusively for infrastructure expansion, supported by funds from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), Plan Fund, and Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA).

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The minister pointed out that the newly established laboratory complexes at Kerala University and MG University are now the largest in South India. Additionally, Rs 250 crore has been invested in upgrading laboratory facilities at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) to meet high standards, reported PTI.

The state’s commitment to higher education is further reflected in the two-day conclave organised by the Department of Higher Education and the Kerala State Higher Education Council at CUSAT on January 14 and 15. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the event, while a pre-conclave workshop, 'Study in Kerala', is scheduled for January 13 at Rajagiri College.

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Minister Bindu noted that around 13 lakh students are currently enrolled in higher education institutions across the state. She emphasised that Kerala’s institutions consistently achieve commendable rankings in national and international quality assessments.

Addressing concerns about students pursuing education abroad, she clarified that only 4 per cent of students heading overseas for studies are from Kerala, countering claims that studying abroad is a widespread trend among the state’s youth. The government, she added, is not discouraging foreign education but is focused on providing world-class learning facilities within the state.

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The minister also highlighted the successful introduction of a four-year undergraduate programme across all universities, which has received positive feedback from students. The curriculum aligns with international academic standards, enabling students to pursue advanced studies in their fields, she added.