Kannur University secures ₹100 crore under PM-USHA Scheme

Kannur University has secured ₹100 crore in funding under the PM-USHA (Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan) Scheme to bolster infrastructure, academics, and research.

The financial aid, granted under the Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU) category, will be split between the Central Government (60%) and the State Government (40%). The initiative is designed to enhance the higher education ecosystem by promoting excellence and equity, said a University press release.

In 2018, the university received ₹20 crore under the scheme’s earlier version, RUSA-I, which contributed to notable improvements in infrastructure, faculty recruitment, and research. These efforts helped Kannur University progress from a ‘B’ grade in its first NAAC accreditation in 2016 to a ‘B++’ grade in 2021, along with recognition in the NIRF rankings and the Times Higher Education global rankings.

The university aims to attract more students from North Malabar and beyond by upgrading laboratory facilities to international standards, launching integrated postgraduate programmes, and expanding hostel infrastructure to create full-fledged residential campuses.

Efforts to strengthen research include signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with national and international institutions, pursuing patents, and boosting research publications. The Research and Development Cell will be enhanced, and collaborations with industries will foster innovation, the University said.

The Placement Cell will also receive attention, with new training programmes planned to improve employability. Additionally, the university intends to revamp its curriculum framework, introduce online courses, and embed internships and apprenticeships into degree programmes.

Published - December 22, 2024 08:07 pm IST