Governor Arif Muhammad Khan has expressed his lack of surprise over the controversies surrounding the higher education sector in Kerala, highlighting the presence of unqualified individuals holding positions within universities. In an interview with the media in Kochi, Governor Khan emphasized that these issues pale in comparison to the larger problems at hand.
The governor criticized the appointment of individuals solely based on their association with political figures, stating that it is disheartening to witness the private secretary of the Chief Minister being given a position without proper qualifications, with the Chief Minister himself justifying such appointments. According to Governor Khan, these instances are a reflection of the manipulation and politicization of universities, which ultimately jeopardize the future of the younger generation.
Highlighting the prevailing atmosphere of fear and intimidation, Governor Khan noted that the media in Kerala has been subjected to pressure tactics, inhibiting their ability to address such issues effectively. He expressed his disappointment with the media’s reluctance to take up these matters seriously, claiming that Kerala is one place where the media appears to have been intimidated. The governor underscored the significance of media freedom in exposing and addressing concerns related to the education sector.
Reflecting on a recent controversy surrounding the appointment of Zisa Thomas as the interim vice-chancellor of Abdul Kalam University of Technology, Governor Khan lamented the hindrances faced by the appointed official. He shared that the interim vice-chancellor was initially denied entry into the university premises and faced a lack of cooperation from certain quarters. The governor expressed his helplessness in such incidents, expressing regret over the challenges faced by dedicated individuals seeking to bring positive change to the education system.
Governor Khan stressed the importance of speaking up and displaying courage in addressing these issues. He criticized the lack of serious attention given by the media, suggesting that discussions surrounding these matters are often limited to being mere news items. The governor further noted the absence of editorials in newspapers that could shed light on the critical concerns affecting the education sector.
Moreover, Governor Khan highlighted a worrisome trend in Kerala, where talented students are leaving the state upon completing their secondary education. This brain drain has implications for the state’s development and future prospects. Additionally, he clarified that he has not received any complaints regarding the alleged forgery involving Kayamkulam SFI leader Nikhil Thomas.
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