The Kerala State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) was established in 2007 through the Kerala State Higher Education Council Act, 2007, enacted by the Government of Kerala. The formation of the Council was a major step toward bringing systematic and planned development to the higher education sector in the state. It was envisioned as a body that would act as a link between the government, academia, and society, ensuring that the policies and practices in higher education aligned with the broader developmental needs of Kerala.

The establishment of KSHEC was inspired by the recommendations of national bodies like the University Grants Commission and various state-level committees that recognized the need for a coordinated mechanism to oversee and guide higher education reforms.

KSHEC was tasked with advising the government on policy matters, promoting academic reforms, supporting curriculum modernization, facilitating faculty development, and improving the overall quality and accessibility of higher education.