Academic atmosphere in Kerala’s universities unfavourable for research, finds study

Many research scholars complained before a Kerala State Higher Education Council panel that they have often been sidelined and denied use of academic facilities.

Research scholars have rued the lack of a conducive atmosphere for quality research in State universities. Many also complained before a Kerala State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) panel that they have often been sidelined and denied use of academic facilities. The shortage of research supervisors, which has led to dwindling opportunities and reduced quality, has also been a bane for research in Kerala. The undue delay in the evaluation process of thesis has also been affecting the career prospects of several researchers. Several such deterrents were recorded by a six-member committee chaired KSHEC executive body member J. Rajan that was constituted to examine the problems of researchers in State universities and colleges. The report was formally approved by the council governing body on Thursday.