Alappuzha: In a major academic development, six universities in Kerala have signed agreements with 47 universities from 40 countries to facilitate student higher education, research and faculty exchange programmes. Partner institutions include universities from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Russia, Australia, Ireland, Switzerland and Germany.

As per the agreements, the respective universities are expected to cover the academic expenses of both students and faculty members. However, Kerala’s universities are currently unable to bear these costs due to ongoing financial constraints, and they are also struggling to raise funds independently.

Among them, the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has made notable progress in this regard. Recently, two faculty members from a German university visited Kannur University and taught German to students, bearing their own expenses.

Kerala University at forefront

Kerala University is at the forefront when it comes to signing MoUs with foreign universities, having entered into agreements with 22 international institutions.

CUSAT: A model of excellence

CUSAT has entered into a collaboration with the St Petersburg Electrotechnical University in Russia to launch a dual-degree MS programme in New Generation Electronics Components. Under the programme, students complete the first year at CUSAT and the second year in Russia. CUSAT has also signed a similar agreement with James Cook University in Australia for an MBA programme, which includes opportunities for industrial training in leading firms.

Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU) has partnered with foreign universities for research in the field of nanoscience. The Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit has signed an agreement with the Central European University for research in linguistics and related areas, although the collaboration has not been utilised to its full potential. The Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University, which has an agreement with the University of Tübingen in Germany, also faces similar challenges.

Number of foreign university tie-ups by each Kerala university:
 

University of Kerala22
Mahatma Gandhi University10

Kannur University

7
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT)4
Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit3

Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University

1

 

A major opportunity for students

These international collaborations offer Kerala’s students the opportunity to pursue world-class education at comparatively lower costs. They can also access pathways to employment opportunities abroad.

“Through such agreements, students can study at leading global universities at reduced costs and gain better prospects for employment there,” said Dr P G Sankaran, former Vice-Chancellor, CUSAT.