Rs 19 crore sanctioned for laboratory upgrades in Tamil Nadu government colleges

Rs 19 crore sanctioned by the Tamil Nadu Higher Education Department has marked a significant step towards improving laboratory facilities in government arts and science colleges across the State. The funding, amounting to ₹19.18 crore, will be used to upgrade laboratories in 112 government colleges, with a focus on strengthening science education for students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds.

The sanction orders were handed over by Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhiaan at the Directorate of Collegiate Education in Chennai. Officials said the move aligns with the State’s long-term goal of ensuring equal access to quality higher education infrastructure, particularly in institutions that cater largely to first-generation learners.

According to the minister, modern laboratory facilities are essential for students to understand scientific concepts through practice rather than theory alone. The upgraded labs are expected to support undergraduate and postgraduate courses by providing improved equipment, safer working environments, and better learning conditions.

The initiative is also seen as a response to the growing demand for science education in government colleges, where enrolment numbers have steadily increased over the years.

Rs 19 crore sanctioned as part of wider higher education expansion

The decision to allocate funds for laboratory upgrades comes alongside broader developments in Tamil Nadu’s higher education sector. For the 2025–26 academic year, the government created nearly 15,000 new seats across government colleges to accommodate increasing student intake.

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the department has taken steps to reduce the digital divide among students. Nearly 10 lakh students studying in government, government-aided, and self-financing institutions have been provided with laptops, enabling better access to online learning resources and academic tools.

Officials said these measures are aimed at ensuring that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are not left behind due to lack of facilities. By strengthening both physical and digital infrastructure, the government hopes to improve learning outcomes and employability among graduates.

The laboratory upgrade programme is expected to benefit science departments such as physics, chemistry, biology, and computer science, where practical exposure plays a key role in academic performance.

Rs 19 crore sanctioned alongside student welfare and staff reforms

Beyond infrastructure development, the Higher Education Department has introduced several initiatives to improve campus life and student well-being. One of the key measures includes the mandatory formation of ‘Drug Awareness Committees’ in all government colleges. These committees are tasked with educating students about the dangers of substance abuse and promoting a safe and healthy campus environment.

In addition, ‘Psychological Awareness Committees’ have been established to address mental health concerns and promote gender equality within colleges. Officials said these committees would work towards creating supportive spaces for students to discuss stress, emotional challenges, and social issues.

The department is also focusing on strengthening alumni involvement. Alumni associations have been formed in every government college to help bridge gaps in facilities and student support through contributions and mentorship from former students.

On the administrative front, the minister also issued transfer orders to teaching and non-teaching staff during the event. A total of 164 teachers and 91 non-teaching staff were transferred following an online general counselling process conducted between December 24, 2025, and January 5, 2026.

Official sources stated that the transfers were carried out transparently based on eligibility criteria. Out of 340 applications received from teachers, 164 were approved, while 91 out of 256 applications from non-teaching staff were cleared.

Senior officials, including the Higher Education Secretary and the Commissioner of Collegiate Education, were present during the proceedings. Also Read: Consider SL man plea brings focus on decades-old citizenship struggle in 2026

Conclusion

The decision to allocate ₹19.18 crore for laboratory upgrades reflects Tamil Nadu’s continued emphasis on strengthening government higher education institutions. By combining infrastructure improvement, student welfare initiatives, and administrative reforms, the State aims to create a more supportive and effective learning environment for college students.