Kottayam: An educational institution that began functioning 12 years ago is yet to issue an academic certificate to a single student. The unusual situation, which seems straight out of a film plot, is unfolding at the K.R. Narayanan National Institute of Visual Science and Arts in Kottayam.

And that is not the only concern. So far, students from only four batches have completed their courses and appeared for their examinations. They are still waiting for their certificates.

The delay in completing courses, coupled with the absence of certificates, has left students unable to apply for higher studies or jobs, putting their academic and professional futures at risk.

Despite functioning under the Department of Higher Education, the institute has no clearly defined academic calendar or effective administrative planning.

A certificate had been prepared for the first batch admitted in 2014. However, then Higher Education Minister K.T. Jaleel reportedly suggested changes, pointing out certain shortcomings in the certificate. Although the final design was completed recently, the certificates are yet to be distributed.

Timeline of failures

The institute began a three-year diploma course in 2014 for students who had completed Plus Two. Three consecutive batches enrolled in the course and completed their studies.

The programme was later upgraded to a three-year postgraduate diploma. However, admissions to the new programme began only in 2019.

So far, only one batch has completed the postgraduate diploma. Students admitted in 2022, 2024 and 2025 are still pursuing their courses.

There were no admissions in the current academic year either. As a result, several academic years have effectively become ‘zero years’ for the institute.

The institute has 60 seats across departments including Acting, Directing, Editing, Sound Design, Animation and Visual Effects, and Cinematography.