RAIPUR, July 26:
Expressing concerns that no Indian university was ranked among world’s top 200 educational institutions, President Pranab Mukherjee today suggested interlinking of varsities with industries to produce skilled and talented students to meet present day needs.
Addressing the golden jubilee convocation of Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University here, he said education cannot be seen in isolation.
“There has to be close integration among universities and research organisations. If we have that, it would be possible to attract talented teachers, scholars and students. Universities must have interlinking with industry and market,” Mukherjee said and asked the universities to inject skills into the young population to meet demands of the industries.
Citing ancient Takshila and Nalanda universities, he said excellence in education was one area where India led not for one year or two, but for almost 1,500 years, and asked why we can’t lead now.
“Not a single Indian university, not a single IIT finds its place in world’s top 200 institutions. India was leading the world in arena of higher education. Why can’t we do it now?” he asked.
Mukherjee observed that there has been significant expansion of higher education infrastructure in the country.
“We have over 730 degree-awarding institutions and 37,000 colleges. We have talented teachers and students. We have created adequate infrastructure. Higher grades will bring skilled teachers and students.
“And, almost like a parrot, I keep repeating it with a purpose and to some extent, we have created awareness on importance of ratings,” he said, suggesting need for universities to equip themselves with necessary changes to match top educational institutions standards.
Mukherjee also asked the universities to take advantage of modern communication and technological tools to convert traditional classrooms into smart classrooms.
Speaking to students, the President asked them to fulfill their duty towards society and be socially responsible.
“Society and universities have invested in you. You have a responsibility to give back to the society. Whenever you see any wrong, try to correct it. Be the agent of change,” he said.
Chhattisgarh Governor Balramji Das Tandon and State Chief Minister Raman Singh were among other dignitaries present during the function.
Pt Ravishankar Shukla University is one of the oldest and largest universities of Chhattisgarh. It was formed in 1964, when Chhattisgarh was a part of Madhya Pradesh. (PTI)
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