KSHEC’s new textbook on Kerala’s knowledge systems sparks objections from teacher bodies

Cover of the textbook Knowledge Systems of Kerala introduced by Kerala State Higher Education Council

A new textbook proposed by the Kerala State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) as a mandatory course for third-semester undergraduate students has drawn objections from academic quarters, particularly Left-aligned teacher organisations.

Titled Knowledge Systems of Kerala, the textbook is intended as a compulsory multidisciplinary course of the four-year undergraduate programme. However, critics argue that the council is overstepping its bounds by infringing on the authority of statutory academic bodies in universities that are mandated with curriculum development.

KSHEC maintains that the textbook offers an introductory framework on Kerala’s indigenous knowledge systems, developed over centuries.

According to council vice-chairperson Rajan Gurukkal P.M., the bilingual publication (in English and Malayalam) brings together a wide spectrum of Kerala’s traditional knowledge, encompassing performing arts, cultural practices, oral narratives and documented literary sources.

The book comprises nine chapters, covering themes such as regional knowledge systems, traditional knowledge of ethnic communities, embedded knowledge in crafts and architecture, Ayurvedic practices, and the emergence of new knowledge in the State. Chapters highlighting the contributions of social reformers like Sree Narayana Guru, Ayya Vaikundar and Poykayil Yohannan are among the key features of the textbook.

While the publication aligns with the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) directive to integrate Indian Knowledge Systems into higher education curricula, the council insists that the proposed content is tailored to Kerala’s regional context, offering students locally grounded perspectives within the national framework.

The Vice-Chancellors of State universities have been requested to direct their respective Boards of Studies to consider the textbook as a foundational resource for course design and syllabus preparation. The council has also encouraged universities to adopt this textbook in place of existing multidisciplinary courses such as Kerala Studies and Kerala Culture.

However, Left-leaning teacher bodies have raised concerns over what they describe as a lack of consultation prior to the decision. They argue that the proposed text leans heavily on historical narratives, while neglecting other significant dimensions of Kerala’s diverse traditions and legacy.

Countering such allegations, Prof. Gurukkal pointed out the course is not confined to any one academic discipline. He added that the book is structured as a complete course, with clearly defined learning outcomes and reference materials that would reduce the burden of universities to develop such content independently.

KSHEC plans to organise a faculty development programme to train teachers in delivering the new course material.

Published - June 02, 2025 08:03 pm IST