The government of Kerala has introduced a new ranking system for higher education institutions in the state. The system, which will be used to rank universities, colleges, and other higher education institutions, will focus on scientific temper and secularism as key parameters.
The new system is aimed at promoting a scientific and secular outlook in higher education institutions and ensuring that they uphold democratic values. The ranking system was developed by a committee comprising educationists, experts, and representatives from the government.
Parameters of the ranking system
The new ranking system will assess higher education institutions on several parameters, including teaching, research, infrastructure, innovation, and inclusivity. However, two of the key parameters that will be given significant weightage are scientific temper and secularism.
Scientific temper refers to the ability to think rationally, critically, and objectively, and to use evidence-based reasoning. It is an essential aspect of education, particularly in the fields of science, technology, and research.
Secularism, on the other hand, refers to the principle of separating religion and state. In the context of higher education institutions, it means that institutions should not promote any particular religion or religious ideology.
The Kerala government has emphasized the importance of scientific temper and secularism in the state’s education system. According to the state’s Education Minister, the new ranking system is a reflection of the government’s commitment to promoting these values.
Implications of the new ranking system
The introduction of the new ranking system has been welcomed by educators and experts in the state. They believe that it will help to promote a more scientific and secular outlook in higher education institutions and ensure that they are aligned with democratic values.
The new ranking system is also expected to have implications for funding and grants for higher education institutions. Institutions that perform well on the scientific temper and secularism parameters are likely to receive more funding from the government.
In addition, the new ranking system is expected to attract more students to institutions that perform well on these parameters. Students are increasingly looking for institutions that promote a scientific and secular outlook and uphold democratic values.
Conclusion
The introduction of the new ranking system is a significant step towards promoting a more scientific and secular outlook in higher education institutions in Kerala. By emphasizing these values, the government is ensuring that the state’s higher education institutions are aligned with democratic principles and are equipped to address the challenges of the future. The new ranking system is expected to have positive implications for funding and grants for institutions, as well as for attracting more students to them.
