Kerala University plans expansion of interdisciplinary PG courses; AI-driven cancer and cardiac research get funding boost in Budget

The Budget presented by Kerala University for the 2026-27 fiscal has announced the launch of 40 new one-year postgraduate programmes in emerging interdisciplinary domains including Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum technologies and semiconductor devices.

It also gives priority to infrastructure development on the Karyavattom campus, with various projects including a model waste management plant, health centre, electric buggies to support a green campus, enhanced research laboratory facilities, development of walking paths and scientific upgrading of the water treatment mooted.

Convener of Syndicate Standing Committee on Finance G. Muralidharan presented the balanced Budget of ₹888.33 crore at a senate meeting chaired by Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal on Saturday (February 28, 2026).

Faculty appointments

The Budget proposes making faculty appointments on deputation from government colleges for the four-year honours degree programmes.

Among the notable announcements is the proposal to establish a Centre for Rare Earths and Advanced Materials on the Karyavattom campus. The centre will be set up in association with the Geology department to serve as a nodal centre for implementing a ‘Rare Earth Corridor’ project. The facility is expected to provide scientific leadership and technical guidance in areas such as mineral resource valuation, development of eco-friendly mining and processing technologies, high-value product design, environmental protection and policy support.

Several initiatives are also planned to ensure the effective utilisation of AI-run technologies in academics and research. The Centre for Advanced Cancer Research under the Biochemistry department will develop AI-assisted diagnostic and treatment strategies for heart disease. A central focus of the project is the early detection of cardiac troponin (cTnI), a crucial biomarker widely regarded as a key indicator of heart muscle damage. An allocation of ₹20 lakh has been earmarked to support this research initiative.

An allocation of ₹20 lakh has been earmarked for an AI-based pancreatic cancer research. The project, developed at the Centre for Advanced Cancer Research, seeks to build a comprehensive system to detect subtle cellular changes, analyse patients’ genetic profiles and assess tumour characteristics. The initiative aims to enable accurate diagnosis, and promote precision medicine.

A semi-automated paper recycling plant will also be set up under the Translational Research and Innovation Centron on the Karyavattom campus. The proposed micro-plant will convert large volumes of paper waste generated by the university into usable paper, quality stationery and packaging materials. The initiative is part of the ‘Campus to Career Project’ and aims to combine sustainability with skill development. An amount of ₹25 lakh has been allocated for the purpose.

Film studies centre

A new film studies and research centre, P.K. Rosy Centre for Cinema Archive, will be established in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication. The centre will facilitate historical research, data collection, preservation and documentation related to films.