MALABAR EDUCATION MOVEMENT

The Malabar Education Movement (MEM) is a dynamic non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing equity and quality in education across the India and began its activities in the Northern Kerala. Founded on the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for social transformation, MEM focuses on bridging educational disparities and empowering underrepresented people through targeted interventions, research, and advocacy.

MEM works collaboratively with educators, students, policy-makers, and local communities to design and implement programs that enhance learning outcomes, promote inclusive education, and foster a culture of academic excellence. Its initiatives span from early childhood development and school improvement projects to higher education, teacher training, digital literacy, and community-based educational research.

Guided by values of social justice, inclusivity, and evidence-based practice, the Malabar Education Movement is committed to building a more equitable educational landscape—one where every learner, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive. We have established a Centre for Educational Data Analysis and Research (CEDAR) for conducting research that support the activities of the organization

MISSION

To advance educational equity and excellence in the Malabar region by empowering communities, supporting educators, and transforming learning environments through innovative programs, inclusive practices, and data-driven research

VISION

A just and inclusive society where every individual has equitable access to high-quality education, enabling them to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the world.

Kerala's Notorious North - South Disparity

Unequal Opportunities Beyond Class 10: Regional Disparity in Kerala

The Malabar Education Movement is deeply concerned about the persistent lack of educational opportunities for students in the northern districts of Kerala following the completion of Class 10. The accompanying table illustrates a troubling trend observed over the past five years: the seven northern districts of Kerala (Malabar region) consistently face a severe shortage of seats in post-secondary educational institutions.

The data compares the number of students who pass the Class 10 examination with the total availability of seats in Higher Secondary Schools, Vocational Higher Secondary Schools, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), and Polytechnics across all fourteen districts of Kerala. The disparity is stark—while the seven southernmost districts enjoy a surplus of seats, the seven northern districts, especially Malappuram, are grappling with a critical shortage.

This imbalance not only denies thousands of students their right to continue education but also deepens existing socio-economic divides in the state. The case of Malappuram is particularly alarming, with the largest student population in the state but the lowest per capita seat availability in post-secondary institutions.

Addressing this gap is central to MEM’s mission of promoting educational equity. We advocate for policy reforms, resource reallocation, and infrastructure development in the Malabar region to ensure that no child is left behind due to systemic neglect.

Dr. Muhammed Kutty P V

25-05-2025, 2 min read