Kerala's Digital University Act Set for Major Revamp

The Kerala government introduced a bill to amend the 2021 State Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology Act. The changes concern the appointment process and age limit for university vice-chancellors. Law Minister P Rajeev highlighted alignment with UGC regulations and the Supreme Court affirmed state authority on these appointments.

The Kerala government on Monday took a significant step by introducing a Bill in the Assembly aimed at amending the 2021 State Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology Act. These amendments primarily address the search committee's formation for appointing vice-chancellors and revise the age limit associated with the role.

Law Minister P Rajeev, representing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, introduced the 'Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2025.' Rajeev emphasized that the amendment would align vice-chancellor appointments with the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, showcasing state compliance with national standards.

Further provisions in the amendment delineate the selection process, ensuring that the chancellor appoints vice-chancellors based on recommendation panels. The minister underscored that the Supreme Court's recent decisions have fortified the state's authority in these appointments, allowing the state to dictate the priority order from the committee's list.

(With inputs from agencies.)