MES Kalladi College, Mannarkkad, has earned autonomous status. It is the first aided or government college in Palakkad district to get this honor. "From the next academic year, the college will independently conduct student admissions and examinations in accordance with government and university regulations," said principal C. Rajesh. Founded in 1967, MES Kalladi College was the first arts and science college under the Muslim Educational Society (MES). It offers 35 academic programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and research courses. The college received an A++ grade in its latest NAAC accreditation in January 2025. Last year, it joined the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-UShA) and was awarded a ₹5 crore grant. MES Kalladi College also hosts foreign students through the Centre’s Study in India programme. It has academic partnerships with universities in Indonesia and the Philippines.