According to reports in The Hindu, many Kerala students call for repealing a contentious provision in the Sree Narayana Guru Open University (SNGOU) Act, 2021. The provision, Section 72, grants the open university exclusive rights to conduct distance education courses, severely affecting the higher education prospects of thousands of students who find the open university's fees prohibitive.
Students argue that distance education courses offered by universities like the University of Calicut are more affordable and provide certificates comparable in value to those from regular classes. Implementing Section 72 has also led to the closure of numerous parallel colleges that previously offered private registration options, further limiting educational opportunities for many.
The state government has intervened to mediate the dispute between the universities over providing distance education and private registration. However, the situation remains unresolved, with students from parallel colleges considering legal action against the restrictions imposed by the SNGOU.
This controversy has highlighted the urgent need for more inclusive and accessible higher education policies in Kerala. Advocates for the students emphasize that affordable distance education is crucial for those who cannot attend regular courses due to financial constraints or other personal circumstances. They argue that the current provision disproportionately affects economically disadvantaged students, exacerbating educational inequity in the state.
The protests have gained significant attention, sparking widespread discussions about the broader implications of the SNGOU Act on Kerala's educational landscape. Critics of the Act argue that it prioritizes institutional monopolies over student welfare and accessibility, and they are calling for a reassessment of the policy to ensure equitable access to higher education for all students.
The government's response and the potential outcomes of the legal actions will be crucial in shaping the future of distance education in Kerala. Students, educators, and policymakers closely monitor the situation to see how it unfolds and whether the state will adopt more student-friendly measures in response to the growing demand for affordable and accessible education.
As the debate continues, the primary concern remains ensuring that higher education remains within reach for all students, regardless of their financial background. The resolution of this issue will likely have long-term implications for educational policy in Kerala, potentially influencing how distance education is structured and regulated across the state.