Patna, September 12 (Daily Kiran) : Bihar’s government engineering and polytechnic colleges have reported an impressive 98% enrollment rate for the 2026-27 academic year. This surge reflects the state government’s commitment to enhancing technical education, which includes a focus on research, modern curricula, skill development, and student placements.
Sheela Kumari, the state’s Minister for Science, Technology, and Technical Education, shared these insights during a review meeting with principals from state polytechnic colleges. She noted that 20 branches across 11 government polytechnic institutions have received accreditation from the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). Furthermore, evaluations for 42 programs across 32 institutions are currently underway. The minister highlighted a significant increase in enrollment compared to the previous academic year, indicating a broader expansion of technical education in the state.
To promote research in engineering colleges, the government plans to increase research funding from the current range of ₹2-3 lakh to between ₹20-30 lakh per project. Emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, GIS, robotics, semiconductors, and green energy are being integrated into research initiatives.
Kumari also mentioned efforts to develop high-performing colleges into universities. The establishment of Shaheed Jubba Sahni Architectural and Civil University in Muzaffarpur and Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University of Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science in Bhagalpur is nearing completion.
In collaboration with tech giants like Google and Microsoft, the state is finalizing training programs for technical educators and developing AI-based curricula. Additionally, students will receive training in German, French, and Japanese to enhance their employment opportunities abroad. Plans for international exposure visits for students are also in the pipeline.
The government has proposed the establishment of new planetariums at the divisional level in Purnia, Motihari, and Jamui, and is making strides in remote sensing, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and space policy. Recruitment of young professionals through Beltron is set to begin soon.
During the review meeting, discussions also covered faculty and student attendance, as well as the facilities available at institutions. For polytechnic colleges lacking hostel facilities, the government will arrange accommodations by renting houses. Notably, Madhubani Polytechnic College reported 100% placement, and efforts are underway to enhance placement rates across other institutions.
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