Evaluation Process

The Kerala State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) will conduct the evaluation of all Expression of Interest (EOI) applications through the Scholar Connect online platform. The selection process will employ the following two equally weighted criteria, each carrying 50% weight in the final decision.

Expected Outcomes (50%) will evaluate the potential impact of engaging the diaspora scholar with the host institution. Applications will be scored on alignment between the scholar's expertise and the needs of the host institution; plus the anticipated outcomes for students, faculty, and institutional development. Scores will range from 1-3 points, with 3 indicating high potential for measurable, sustainable outcomes.

Equitable Distribution (50%) will ensure fair allocation on the basis of the participation of institutions in the State in the Scholar Connect programme. Institutions that have hosted 0-1 scholars in the past year will receive 3 points, those with 2-3 scholars will receive 2 points, and institutions with 4+ scholars will receive 1 point.

The total score calculation will be: (Expected Outcomes Score × 0.5) + (Equitable Distribution Score × 0.5), with a maximum possible score of 3 points. Applications with the highest weighted total scores will receive priority approval. In cases of tied scores, KSHEC will request supplementary information from host institutions for final determination.

Initial Approval and Vetting

KSHEC will have a role in the approval/vetting process for new institution and scholar registrations to ensure their credentials align with the programme's quality standards. This adds a layer of trust for the visiting scholars and the institutions.

Active Matchmaking (Beyond Filters)

While the online platform provides filters, KSHEC will play an active mediating role to:

• Proactively identify institutional needs that align with specific scholar expertise.
• Suggest potential collaborations to scholars based on their stated preferences and available opportunities.
• Advise scholars to consider engaging with a wider range of institutions to ensure equitable distribution of expertise across Kerala.

Reconciliation

Act as a mediator in case of any disagreements or issues that arise between scholars and institutions regarding commitments or expectations.

Financial Assistance

Initial approval for financial assistance will be provided by KSHEC based on the submitted proposal by colleges and universities in the State. It is the responsibility of the host institution to submit scanned copies of all relevant bills and supporting documents after the programme for processing and release of the sanctioned amount.

Quality Assurance & Impact Assessment

• Standardized Reporting: Facilitate the submission of post-programme reports by institutions to document outcomes and impacts.
• Feedback Mechanism: Implement robust feedback mechanisms for both scholars and institutions to rate their collaboration experiences, which can inform future engagements.
• Impact Studies: Periodically conduct studies to assess the overall impact of Scholar Connect on Kerala's higher education landscape, including improvements in research output, teaching quality, and inward mobility of students and faculty.