Published Aug 27, 2026 | 11:44 AM ⚊ Updated Aug 27, 2026 | 11:48 AM
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said the state's "next chapter" would be shaped by the "aspirations of our youth."
Synopsis: The Karnataka government has formed a five-member Cabinet sub-committee to address student concerns and recommend education reforms. Chaired by Health Minister UT Khader, the panel will examine exam integrity, fee regulation, infrastructure, curriculum, mental health, scholarships and equity. It will consult stakeholders and submit its recommendations within one month.
The Karnataka government has constituted a Cabinet sub-committee to address issues affecting students and to recommend reforms to the state’s education system.
The committee will be chaired by Health and Family Welfare Minister UT Khader, with Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddy, Home Minister Priyank Kharge, Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil, and School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa as members, according to a government memorandum dated August 26.
Announcing the constitution of the committee, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday, August 27, said the state’s “next chapter” would be shaped by the “aspirations of our youth.”
“From fair and transparent examinations to affordable education, better public institutions, relevant skills, employment opportunities and student wellbeing, every young person deserves an education system that prepares them for a better future,” he said in a post on X.
The CM stated that the committee will examine and recommend reforms on critical issues concerning the education system, in consultation with students, parents, teachers and institutions.
“Karnataka’s youth deserve an education system that matches their dreams and the opportunities of tomorrow. Our commitment is clear: listen to our youth, respond to their concerns and create the opportunities they aspire for,” he wrote.
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According to the official memorandum, the committee has been tasked with studying and recommending reforms to the education system covering six key areas: ensuring integrity of examination/recruitment processes, fee regulation, infrastructure in government institutions, employment-oriented curriculum, student mental wellbeing and equal access to education.
The committee will look at minimising issues with the state’s examination and recruitment processes by preventing paper leaks and other malpractices and ensuring fairness, transparency and accountability. It will also establish a fixed calendar for the examination and recruitment process to prevent delays and uncertainty.
The committee will also explore options to regulate fee availed by private institutions and reduce the financial burden on students and families. It will also look at reforms to improve access to education among the marginalised communities, including strengthening scholarships and other financial assistance and expanding hostel facilities.
It has also been tasked with recommending reforms to strengthen infrastructure and improve the quality of education at government schools, colleges and other public institutions. This would include addressing staff and faculty vacancies and ensuring the availability and proper functioning of essential facilities like libraries, laboratories and hostels.
Interestingly, the committee will also address the students’ mental health concerns and recommend measures to tackle academic stress and prevent suicides in institutions.
Addressing the increasing unemployment in the state, the committee will explore options to align the curricula with emerging employment opportunities and industry requirements.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
