Kerala is becoming a favored destination for higher education for students across the globe, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Thursday, noting that over 450 students from more than 40 countries are pursuing their higher education in the state.
Mr. Vijayan gave his comment during the International Student Submit in Kerala. The event, attended by 162 foreign students studying in departments and colleges under the University of Kerala, was organised as a prelude to the ‘Keraleeyam’ event planned in November. In Kerala, a significant project is underway to construct an expansive international hostel facility covering an area of 43,500 square feet. This facility is not only intended to accommodate foreign students but is also gaining attention from students hailing from various regions of India. This trend speaks to the state’s strong commitment to fostering pluralism and multiculturalism, making it an increasingly attractive destination for a diverse student population.
Had an insightful interaction with the delegation from Finland led by the Minister of Education @anna_maja. We briefly discussed ways to strengthen ties between Kerala and Finland & explored opportunities for collaboration in nursing, agriculture, tourism, education & fisheries.… pic.twitter.com/xXCu3mexqs
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) October 19, 2023
The Chief Minister of Kerala, in his address at the event, emphasised the government’s ambitious plans to transform the state into a knowledge-driven economy and a hub for innovation. This indicates the state’s focus on not only providing accommodation but also fostering an environment conducive to learning, research, and entrepreneurial endeavours. As a symbolic gesture, the Chief Minister presented mementoes to the students, underscoring the importance of their contributions to the state’s academic and cultural landscape.
Furthermore, the Higher Education Minister, R. Bindu, who presided over the event, reiterated the government’s commitment to elevating Kerala to a pinnacle of academic excellence. This entails a comprehensive effort to enhance the educational infrastructure and create an environment that attracts both national and international students seeking high-quality education.
The Finance Minister, K.N. Balagopal, delivered the keynote address, likely shedding light on the financial aspects of this significant undertaking. Additionally, General Education Minister V. Sivankutty, along with MLAs C.K. Hareendran and I.B. Satheesh, Mayor Arya Rajendra, district panchayat president D. Suresh Kumar, and Kerala Media Academy Chairman R.S. Babu, were among the distinguished attendees, signifying the broad support for this educational initiative.
To make the event more enriching, cultural programs were presented by international students, adding a vibrant and multicultural dimension to the occasion. This entire gathering and the unfolding initiatives underscore Kerala’s ambition to emerge as a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and educational excellence, transcending geographical boundaries and welcoming students from diverse backgrounds.
There can be several reasons why foreign students are increasingly drawn to Kerala for higher education:
- Diverse and Inclusive Environment: Kerala is known for its commitment to pluralism and multiculturalism, creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for students from different cultural backgrounds.
- Quality Education: The state has a strong focus on providing quality education, and its universities and colleges offer a wide range of academic programs, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a high standard of education.
- Government Support: The government, as highlighted by the Chief Minister, is actively involved in promoting Kerala as a knowledge-driven economy and a hub for innovation. This commitment demonstrates the state’s dedication to providing a conducive environment for learning and research.
- Infrastructure Development: The ongoing project to construct an expansive international hostel facility showcases the state’s efforts to accommodate foreign students and meet their needs, which adds to the appeal of studying in Kerala.
- Cultural Exchange: The presence of students from diverse backgrounds contributes to a rich cultural exchange, making Kerala an exciting and vibrant place for learning, research, and personal growth.
- Supportive Leadership: The involvement of key government officials and ministers in this educational initiative signifies a strong political commitment to promoting Kerala as an educational hub.
In summary, foreign students like Kerala for its inclusive environment, educational quality, government support, infrastructure development, cultural exchange opportunities, and the commitment of its leadership to enhancing the educational landscape.
