Chennai’s historic men’s colleges open doors to women as co-education gains ground

Two established colleges in Chennai are set to admit women for the first time from this academic year, marking a significant shift in the city’s educational landscape. Pachaiyappa’s College, founded in 1840, and C. Kandaswami Naidu College for Men, established in 1964, are both transitioning to co-educational institutions. While the move began with postgraduate and evening courses, this year undergraduate programmes will also welcome female students.

“We hope to fill at least 30 per cent of undergraduate courses with women this academic year. This percentage will be increased to 50 per cent in the coming years,” said V. M. Muthuramalinga Andavar, principal of C. Kandaswami Naidu College.

The trend is not limited to these institutions. In 2024, Government Arts College in Nandanam, one of Chennai’s oldest men’s colleges, began admitting women. Similarly, MCC Higher Secondary School in Chetpet introduced co-education several years ago, and Annai Veilankanni’s College of Arts and Science in Saidapet has shifted from being a women’s college to a co-educational institute.

“In 2000, the college started as a women’s institute, then switched to co-education for five years, later reverted to women-only, and now it is co-educational again,” said V. Radhika, principal of Annai Veilankanni’s College. She added that many parents and students now prefer co-educational institutions, especially those with deemed university status.

Declining enrolment in single-gender institutions and growing parental preference for inclusive learning environments are key factors driving the shift. Former headmaster of MCC Higher Secondary School, G. J. Manohar, said, “Today’s workplace is inclusive, and to prepare students for a heterogeneous group, it is better to bring them up in such an environment early on. I have noticed that children studying in mixed groups are better at appreciating gender values and mutual respect.”

Educational consultant Nirmala Krishnan noted that research shows students in inclusive environments are emotionally stronger and more confident. “Gender sensitisation is best learnt and experienced in a mixed environment,” she said.

The transition, however, comes with challenges, including managing gender equations and ensuring a safe environment. Institutions are taking gradual steps, with many aiming for a balanced intake over the next few years.