Thu Nov 20 18:09:56 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:

Summary:

Karnataka’s Higher Education Minister M.C. Sudhakar has stated that the state government will not regulate the fees, seat reservations, or curriculum of foreign universities operating within Karnataka. These universities, sanctioned directly by the UGC, are considered autonomous. While Lancaster University (UK) has voluntarily agreed to provide reservations for poor and meritorious students, this cannot be mandated for other foreign institutions. The State Education Policy (SEP) will also not apply. The state government will, however, seek clarification from the UGC on handling student grievances should a foreign university suddenly close. Minister Sudhakar also met with a British delegation led by U.K. Minister Seema Malhotra, requesting an increase in Chevening scholarships for Karnataka students and proposing dual degree programs and research collaborations with UK universities.

News Article:

Karnataka Won’t Regulate Foreign Universities, Minister Says

Bengaluru, November 20, 2025 – Foreign universities establishing campuses in Karnataka will operate largely autonomously, with the state government unable to regulate fees, seat reservations, or curriculum, according to Higher Education Minister M.C. Sudhakar.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Minister Sudhakar clarified that these universities, approved directly by the University Grants Commission (UGC), function similarly to private and deemed-to-be universities. “We have provided the necessary infrastructure,” he said, “but administrative decisions are up to the universities themselves.”

While the state cannot mandate reservations, Lancaster University of the UK has voluntarily committed to reserving seats for poor and meritorious students, a move the minister applauded. The State Education Policy (SEP) will also not be applicable to these institutions.

Acknowledging potential risks, the state government plans to request clarification from the UGC regarding student protection in the event of a university closure. “There is no clarity on the future of the students as foreign universities are not under the control of the state government,” Dr. Sudhakar stated.

Earlier in the day, Minister Sudhakar met with a delegation led by U.K. Minister for Indo Pacific Seema Malhotra. He requested an increase in Chevening scholarships for students from Karnataka and proposed collaborative dual degree programs and research centers between universities in Karnataka and the UK. He emphasized the benefit of these universities, stating not everyone can afford to study abroad.

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