Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University: A Legacy of Language and Culture

Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University was established by the Government of Kerala on 1st November 2012, under the initial Ordinance of 2012, and formalized by the Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University Act 2013. This pioneering institution was founded with a vision to enrich and advance the Malayalam language and culture within a contemporary context.

The university’s inaugural Vice Chancellor was Shri. K. Jayakumar, IAS, a former Chief Secretary of the state. Following his term, Dr. Usha Titus, then Principal Secretary of the Higher Education Department, served as the temporary Vice Chancellor before Dr. Anilkumar V was appointed. Dr. Sushama L is the present Vice Chancellor of the university.

As the only university dedicated to offering education across all knowledge disciplines in Malayalam, Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University is committed to integrating past, present, and future aspects of the language. The university plays a crucial role in publishing books and journals that not only uplift and enrich the Malayalam language but also facilitate translation to and from Malayalam. This effort supports the creation and dissemination of knowledge while preserving the language’s rich heritage.

In addition, the university is deeply engaged in the reading and preservation of ancient manuscripts, safeguarding traditional knowledge systems. This preservation work is complemented by research in language technology aimed at updating Malayalam to meet contemporary technological standards. The university’s collaborations with various institutions further bolster these efforts, driving the development of the language in a modern context.

Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University offers eleven postgraduate programs, ten doctoral programs, and a range of online short-term courses, all delivered in Malayalam. Its mission extends to fostering intellectual and skilled human resources capable of leading Kerala’s holistic development, integrating global technological advancements with regional cultural heritage. Through its rigorous academic programs and research initiatives, the university contributes significantly to Kerala’s transition into a knowledge society while upholding the state’s secular and equitable traditions.

• make the study of Malayalam language, literature and culture more relevant.
• offer postgraduate courses with high academic standard.
• take up culturally and academically relevant projects.
• initiate research in critical areas.
• undertake publication of books and journals.
• pursue activities aimed at enriching Malayalam language to the needs of the day.
• encourage translation of Malayalam works into other Indian and foreign languages.
•  take up such studies, activities and projects that would make Malayalam capable of handling any area of knowledge at all levels.