Kerala begins work on Bill for proposed Tribal University in Wayanad
Kerala’s government is preparing a draft Bill for a Tribal University in Wayanad and has begun developing a concept note for the project. The State budget allocated ₹50 crore, while officials will identify possible sites and an expert committee is expected to advise on the institution’s design and funding.
The Kerala government is preparing a draft Bill to establish a Tribal University in Wayanad, with the Higher Education Department beginning work on a concept note for the proposed institution. The project was included among the United Democratic Front’s promises for the 2026 Assembly elections. The revised State Budget for 2026-27, presented by Chief Minister V.D.
Satheesan in June, allocated ₹50 crore for the university. The government will soon begin identifying land for the project. According to sources cited in the source material, the Wayanad district administration will be asked to shortlist suitable revenue sites.
Higher Education Minister Roji M. John told The Hindu that the government was committed to improving the gross enrolment ratio among members of tribal communities. He said the proposed university would offer academic and research programmes reflecting their cultural heritage and developmental aspirations.
Officials said the concept note was being prepared after an initial round of consultations with stakeholders. The project was also discussed at a recent ‘Reimagining Keralam’ round-table conference on major initiatives included in the revised budget. The government envisions the university as a centre for indigenous studies, tribal entrepreneurship, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and future-ready skills.
Its stated aim is to link education with livelihoods, technology and social development while preserving tribal traditions and knowledge systems. The proposed institution is also expected to promote national and international collaboration. An expert committee will be formed to recommend its institutional structure, implementation plan and strategy for mobilising resources.
The source material does not specify a timeline for introducing the draft Bill or beginning construction.
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