Kochi: Higher Education Minister Rosy M John on Saturday said the state government is adopting an open-minded approach towards welcoming foreign and private universities while giving priority to modern, job-oriented courses.John said, “In principle, we are in favor of it (setting up foreign university branches in the state). We cannot remain isolated without knowing the changes around the world.” He said official policy decisions would be taken soon.Along with structural entry to global institutions, the government is giving priority to immediate introduction of contemporary, industry-relevant courses. In response to various institutional requests, several modern courses have already been approved in the last fortnight. The government aims to approve the remaining proposals within this academic year, provided the institutions strictly follow the prescribed guidelines and standards.He said to counter the shortage of medical seats due to students moving to neighboring states, the government is exploring the possibility of increasing seats in both government and private aided sectors.The minister said the previous government implemented the four-year undergraduate program without adequate preparation, leaving students and teachers stranded. He said that to improve it, a team of experts will be appointed to conduct a comprehensive study and suggest necessary amendments.The policy change also addresses the continued migration of students abroad after senior secondary education. The administration plans to upgrade domestic infrastructure to retain talent locally. Additionally, the government is finalizing the modalities to implement the ‘Indira Guarantee’ to provide a stipend of Rs 1,000 per month to college-going girl students.The Minister expressed serious concern over the ongoing CBSE assessment crisis, which has led to the delay in the KEAM rank list and parents are worried about how the revaluation marks will be integrated. He said that the uncertainty of the Central Government should have been avoided.Turning to regional development, John, Minister in-charge of Ernakulam district, said that high priority is being given to the eight-lane Angamaly-Kundannoor bypass and the Kochi Metro Phase 3 extension to Angamaly via Kochi Airport, for which the detailed project report (DPR) is currently underway. The minister blamed the previous LDF administration for the delay in GIFT City land acquisition, and promised to secure central approval to unlock its employment potential.Finally, with regard to the Governor’s direct appointment of pro-RSS academic D Mavuthu as pro-tem MG University Vice-Chancellor, the Minister said the government will firmly place its stand before the Governor to protect academic quality and prevent political interference while avoiding direct constitutional confrontation.He said, “The governor appointed Mavuthu without asking for the list of nominees from the state government. Also the new government did not get enough time to give the list. But we will protest against all such political appointments and focus on the quality of education.”