UGC Rule Changes Led to Decline in College Teacher Vacancies in State, Says Minister R Bindu

Thiruvananthapuram: Higher Education Minister R Bindu has attributed the decrease in college teacher vacancies to changes in University Grants Commission (UGC) rules. Speaking at a press conference, she said the adjustments were made in accordance with UGC regulations that came into effect on April 1, 2020.

The minister explained that many posts, including those of assistant professors, have been made supernumerary under the new rules to protect existing staff. “Posts created before 2020 were made supernumerary to safeguard excess teachers. These positions will be abolished upon retirement or if the employee leaves, which is why there are currently no vacancies to report to the Public Service Commission (PSC) upon retirement,” she said.

Vacancies for new courses have been reported to the PSC, and recommendations for teacher appointments have been made. Courses such as Philosophy, Islamic History, Sociology, and Urdu, which are offered in relatively few colleges, currently have no new posts. As a result, it may take several years for retirement-based vacancies to arise in these disciplines.

The minister emphasised that the government maintains a favorable stance toward candidates, but all appointments must adhere to the legal framework. She also noted that the PSC has forwarded appointment recommendations to eligible candidates for 115 posts.