Hyderabad: Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Friday called on India’s higher education institutions to proactively prepare for emerging challenges and future opportunities. He was speaking at a national conference themed “India@2047: Role of Higher Education in Making India a Developed Nation”, hosted by MNR University and organised by the Education Protection Society for India (EPSI).
The Governor emphasized that higher education is central to realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat. “India already has one of the world’s largest higher education systems with over 1,100 universities and 35 million students. We must ensure quality, innovation, inclusivity, and global competitiveness,” he said.
NEP 2020 and five pillars of progress
Highlighting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Governor urged institutions to adopt multidisciplinary learning, research, digital education, and global curriculum standards. He identified five focus areas for Indian universities:
- Global competitiveness
- Skill development and employability
- Equity and inclusivity
- Research and innovation
- Value-based education
He praised Hyderabad for setting a “shining example” in integrating education, technology, and innovation, calling it a global knowledge hub.
National voices on transformation
In his welcome speech, MNR University Chancellor Manthena Ravi Varma said, “Universities must integrate future-ready topics into today’s curriculum. Equal access for marginalised communities and women is essential.”
Ch. Malla Reddy, Chairman of Malla Reddy Vishwavidyapeeth, stressed that India can turn global challenges into advantages through youth empowerment, technology, and skills development.
Dr. M.R. Jayaram, President of EPSI, shared that a White Paper has been submitted to the Central Government to guide the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Legal and global readiness
Prof. V. Balakista Reddy, Chairman of the Telangana State Council of Higher Education, urged academic leaders to understand legal frameworks, including the Constitution and WTO provisions. He said, “Affordability, quality, and innovation should guide universities going forward.”
Two technical sessions titled “Re-imagining Indian Higher Education for Global Competitiveness” and “Empowering Institutions for India@2047” attracted wide participation from Vice Chancellors, academic heads, and policy experts.
Others who addressed the gathering included Dr. H. Chaturvedi, Dr. Vedprakash Mishra, Dr. Sekar Viswanathan, and P. Palanivel, all senior members of EPSI.