KOCHI: The state is poised to get at least 10 new polytechnics, under Public-Private Participation (PPP) mode, within a year. Industries can absorb skilled manpower from such institutes.“The Ministry of Human Resource Development has a scheme of supporting 300 polytechnics across the country, through the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). We offer financial assistance, it’s totally autonomous.Kerala is in need of polytechnics and will get at least 10 colleges depending on the state’s response,” said A K Nassa, DEA(T) Bureau of Technology Enabled Learning and Scholarships, MHRD.Presently, 60 polytechnics offer 15,000 seats in the state.Though many lack facilities, seats are in demand. “One lakh students apply for seats every year and the selection is based on marks,” said K P Isaac, Member Secretary, AICTE. “The state should invite Expression of Interest (EoI).The PPP mode is being introduced so that the industries in need of skilled manpower can join the venture and recruit students. This is the first time that polytechnics are being established under PPP mode. Of the 300, Kerala can easily get 10 colleges. States like Rajasthan are not interested in seeting up polytecnics,” he said. The AICTE guidelines will be followed. “Courses will be designed according to the needs of the participating industries.At present, courses in mechanical, civil and electronic are in demand.If a textile industry comes forward, their needs will be considered,” he said “The MHRD will give Rs 3 crore, the state Rs 2 crore and land, and Rs 10 crore should be met by private participants. Rs 115 crore and five acres of land are required for setting up a polytechnic.This will be established under a society, comprising the stakeholders.Points will be given according to the percentage of ownership of land,” said director of Technical Education, Latha. Recurring expenditure should also be taken into account. Two programmes are in demand, one in engineering and the other in localised technology such as tourism, hospitality, coir, rubber and other such industries. It is being set up on a no-profit, no-loss method, she said.“Proposals will be invited from the public, semi-autonomous and private sectors for EoI. We’re in the process of placing an advertisement,” said K M Abraham, principal secretary of Higher Education Department.
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