Bhubaneswar, June 1: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has called upon universities in Odisha to evolve into globally competitive, socially responsible, and technologically advanced institutions while firmly upholding Indian values. He emphasized that higher education institutions must play a pivotal role in building a self-reliant India and preparing the state for future challenges.
Addressing a conference of vice-chancellors from both public and private universities at Lok Bhawan, the governor described the gathering as a crucial collective effort to shape the future of higher education in Odisha.
Welcoming the vice-chancellors, Kambhampati stated that universities are centers of knowledge, innovation, and leadership, playing a significant role in nation-building.
In light of rapid technological advancements, emerging subjects, and evolving global challenges, the governor stressed the need for higher education institutions to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to navigate an increasingly complex future.
He noted that the vision of a self-reliant India extends beyond economic independence to encompass innovation, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and education. Universities should promote entrepreneurship and innovation, enabling youth to become catalysts for societal development and progress.
Highlighting the transformative potential of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he pointed out that the policy encourages multidisciplinary education, academic flexibility, skill integration, digital learning, excellent research, and strong industry partnerships.
Kambhampati praised the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and the Odisha government in advancing the implementation of this policy.
He also drew attention to Odisha’s rich tribal heritage, urging universities to conduct meaningful research on indigenous knowledge systems, tribal traditions, and cultural preservation.
The governor informed the assembly that publications documenting particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs), prepared by the Tribal Cell of Lok Bhawan, will be made available to universities to support academic studies and research initiatives.
Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Manjhi remarked that universities are not merely degree-awarding institutions but centers for knowledge creation, innovation, and research. He highlighted the increased budget allocation by the state government for the education sector and outlined several initiatives aimed at strengthening higher education.
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