Governor urges Odisha universities to become globally competitive and innovation-driven
Bhubaneswar, May 31
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Sunday called upon universities in Odisha to evolve into globally competitive, socially responsible and technologically advanced institutions while remaining deeply rooted in Indian values, emphasising that higher education institutions must play a pivotal role in building an Atmanirbhar Bharat and preparing the state for future challenges.
Addressing the Conference of Vice-Chancellors of State Public Universities and Private Universities at Lok Bhavan here, the Governor described the gathering as a significant collective effort to shape the future of higher education in Odisha.
Welcoming the Vice-Chancellors, Kambhampati said universities are centres of knowledge, innovation and leadership and have a crucial responsibility in nation-building.
Observing that the world is undergoing unprecedented transformation driven by rapid technological advancements, emerging disciplines and evolving global challenges, the Governor stressed that institutions of higher learning must equip students with the knowledge, skills and values required to navigate an increasingly complex future.
"The vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat extends beyond economic self-reliance and encompasses innovation, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, energy and education. Universities must foster entrepreneurship and innovation, empowering young people to become catalysts for growth and development in society," Kambhampati said.
Highlighting the transformative potential of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Governor said the policy promotes multidisciplinary education, academic flexibility, skill integration, digital learning, research excellence and stronger industry partnerships.
He appreciated the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the Odisha government in advancing the implementation of the policy.
Drawing attention to Odisha's rich tribal heritage, Kambhampati urged universities to undertake meaningful research on indigenous knowledge systems, tribal traditions and cultural preservation.
He informed the gathering that publications documenting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), prepared by the Tribal Cell of Lok Bhavan, would be made available to universities to support academic study and research initiatives.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also attended the conference, said universities are not merely degree-awarding institutions but centres of knowledge creation, innovation and research.
He highlighted the state government's enhanced budgetary allocation for the education sector and outlined several initiatives aimed at strengthening higher education.
Emphasising that education is the foundation of a progressive and prosperous society, the Chief Minister said: "Odisha has set an ambitious target of becoming a developed state by 2036 and contributing significantly to the national vision of Viksit Bharat."
He called upon educational institutions to prepare a roadmap for inclusive development and help transform Odisha into a major growth engine of the country.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally someone talking about tribal knowledge systems! Odisha has such rich indigenous wisdom in medicine, agriculture, and ecology. Our universities should definitely research and preserve this heritage before it's lost forever. But we also need to ensure tribal communities benefit from this research, not just academics publishing papers.
Atmanirbhar Bharat through education - that's the right vision. But we need more industry-academia collaboration, not just government directives. Our students need exposure to real-world problems and entrepreneurship. The CM mentioning 2036 target for Odisha is ambitious, but without better funding for research and innovation, it's just wishful thinking. Hope the private universities also step up their game.
Good intentions but ground reality is different. Most state universities in Odisha are struggling with funding, political interference, and outdated curriculum. NEP talks about multidisciplinary education, but where are the faculty trained for that? Also, private universities charge hefty fees - how will rural students benefit? Need more scholarships and outreach programs.
Love the emphasis on indigenous knowledge and tribal traditions! Odisha's PVTG communities have so much to teach us about sustainable living. But research shouldn't be extractive - universities must engage these communities as equal partners, not just subjects. Also, appreciate the Governor mentioning digital learning - post-COVID, that's become essential. Let's hope this translates into better internet access for rural campuses. 🌿📚
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