Education a great equaliser, decimates inequities: Vice Prez
Noida Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday described Education as 'a great equaliser' that decimates 'inequities' while giving 'life to democracy', as he said that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has transformed India's educational landscape. Hosted by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), the two-day event is being held on the theme 'Envisioning Future Higher Education: The Pivotal Role of India', and marks 100 years of AIU's establishment. (Sunil Ghosh/HT Photo)
Dhankhar was speaking as he inaugurated the 'National Conference of Vice Chancellors' at Amity University, Noida.
Hosted by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), the two-day event is being held on the theme 'Envisioning Future Higher Education: The Pivotal Role of India', and marks 100 years of AIU's establishment.
'The NEP has really changed the landscape of our education. I was associated with it as Governor of West Bengal. Some major inputs, in the hands of thousands, were taken into consideration for the evolution of this policy, which resonates with our civilizational spirit, essence, and ethos,' said the vice president, addressing over 500 vice chancellors and senior education leaders from across India at the venue.
Appreciating the Uttar Pradesh government's initiatives, he said, 'Giving IT (information technology) 'industry status' has a huge consequence for positive development…'
He said transparency and accountability in school education is becoming 'a hallmark.'
Calling the universities as 'crucibles of innovation', the vice-president said: 'There must be space for disagreement, debate, dialogue and discussion. That is how mind cells are activated. 'Abhivyakti', 'Vaad Vivaad', and 'Anant Vaad' are inalienable facets of our civilisation'. he said,
Dhankhar also underlined the need for India to move on from being a passive recipient of Western knowledge, as he said: 'We cannot remain perpetual students of Western innovation… It is time India we must build world-class institutions, not just to teach, but to pioneer.'
Call for excellence in emerging domains
The vice president also stressed on the need to build institutions that can lead in frontier areas of knowledge and innovation.
'Establish institutions of uncompromising excellence in emerging domains such as artificial intelligence, climate change, climate technology, quantum science, and digital ethics. When Bharat leads, others will follow. Education is not merely for public good; it is our most strategic national asset,' he said.
Dhankhar, meanwhile, also paid tribute to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his martyrdom day, recalling his call for 'Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishaan, Ek Pradhan' during the Jammu and Kashmir campaign of 1952.
The vice president described the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A as a long-overdue correction, attributing it to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
He also planted a sapling under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative.
Meanwhile, Prof Vinay Kumar Pathak, president of AIU, on the occasion highlighted the exponential growth in India's education sector, including doubling of the education budget since 2014 and the rise in patent filings.
'The education budget has more than doubled since 2014, rising from ₹ 68,700 crore to close to ₹ 1.48 lakh crore. With 23 IITs and 20 IIMs, and around 1,200 universities, India has seen 60% growth in a decade. Patent applications have doubled, and we are emerging as a research and innovation hub,' said Prof Pathak.
The two-day conference features 2 plenary sessions and 10 parallel tracks on themes like artificial intelligence (AI) in education, cybersecurity, experiential learning, and sustainability. A University Action Plan based on recommendations from the conference will be sent to state governors and apex education bodies such as UGC, AICTE, and NCTE.
UP Governor visits AKTU
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh governor and chancellor of state universities, Anandiben Patel, on Monday visited Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) in Sector 62, Noida.
She held a detailed meeting with university and institute officials to review academic, administrative, and innovation-related activities.
'Students must be guided and given the right opportunities to become active contributors to India's growth. Technical institutions must prioritise innovation, quality, and research to stay ahead of future challenges,' the Governor was quoted as saying during her interaction with students and faculty on the occasion.
.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Indian Express
an hour ago
- New Indian Express
Final decision on three-language formula after talks with stakeholders: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis
MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said a final decision on the three-language formula will be taken only after consultations with all stakeholders, including litterateurs, language experts and political leaders. Fadnavis chaired a meeting at his official residence in south Mumbai late Monday night to deliberate on the issue. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, School Education Minister Dada Bhuse, Minister of State Dr Pankaj Bhoyar and senior officials from the education department were present. The state government last week issued an amended order, stating Hindi will generally be taught as the third language to students in Marathi and English medium schools from Classes 1 to 5. The government had maintained that Hindi would not be compulsory, but mandated consent of at least 20 students per grade in a school for studying any Indian language other than Hindi. During the meeting chaired by CM Fadnavis on Monday, detailed discussions were held on the implications of the three-language policy under the New Education Policy (NEP). It was decided that the actual ground situation in various states will be presented for reference, and a comprehensive presentation would be made on the academic impact, especially with regard to Marathi students, a statement from the Chief Minister's Office said. "It was agreed that a structured consultation process be conducted with scholars, writers, political leaders and other stakeholders before arriving at a final decision," Fadnavis said in the statement. Following the meeting, School Education Minister Dada Bhuse is expected to initiate the next phase of consultations, the statement said. After the meeting, Bhuse told reporters that the state government will hold discussions with various stakeholders, including political leaders and litterateurs, to address concerns over the implementation of the NEP. All decisions have been taken keeping the interest of students at the forefront, he asserted. Bhuse said a review meeting was held earlier on Monday to assess previous decisions made under the NEP framework. "We will engage with all concerned, whether it is (MNS chief) Raj Thackeray or noted writers. We will place all facts before them and explain that the policy has been implemented after a thorough study, ensuring our students do not lag behind," he said. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) head Raj Thackeray last week asked what was the need to "impose" Hindi on students and appealed to schools in the state to foil the government's "hidden agenda to deliberately create a language divide." Hindi is the state language of some northern states and it is wrong to force it on Maharashtra, where Marathi is widely used, he asserted. Bhuse said while formulating the education policy, the government has always prioritised students' welfare and is open to suggestions from all quarters. "We will meet those who have raised objections and are hopeful of a positive outcome through dialogue," he said. Bhuse also said the government would share a comparative analysis of the situation in Maharashtra and other states to support its decisions. Earlier, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar on Monday made it clear that only Marathi is mandatory in the state, and not Hindi, and said the ongoing controversy on teaching a third language in schools was "unreasonable and illogical." Talking to reporters here, Shelar insisted teaching Hindi has not been introduced as a mandatory third language from Classes 1 to 5 as being claimed in some quarters. "In fact, our government has removed the earlier compulsion of teaching Hindi from Classes 5 to 8. Instead, we have made it (Hindi) available as an optional choice alongside several other languages. Therefore, the ongoing discussion around the issue is unrealistic, unreasonable and illogical," he said. "We are staunch supporters of the Marathi language and equally committed to the interest of students," averred Shelar, who is also the Mumbai BJP president.
NDTV
an hour ago
- NDTV
These Countries May Offer The Safest Refuge If World War III Erupts
The escalating conflict between Iran and Israel has triggered widespread concerns about the possibility of a global war, with many fearing the onset of World War III. Recent reports have confirmed that the United States has carried out military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, including deploying 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs to target underground sites over the weekend. These actions, taken alongside Israel's ongoing air operations against Tehran, have significantly heightened tensions in the region and deepened global anxiety about the broader implications. Amid the growing instability, US President Donald Trump has claimed that both Iran and Israel sought his mediation for "peace", leading to his announcement of a proposed ceasefire. Despite his efforts, however, the situation remains volatile, with the fear of an escalating global conflict hanging over international relations. In a sharply critical response the current situation, Russia's Ambassador to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, condemned the US military strikes on Iran, accusing Washington of opening a "Pandora's box" with potentially disastrous consequences for global security. If the conflict escalates into a global war, it's likely to involve allies worldwide. However, some regions may remain less affected. The Metro has identified countries that could serve as safe havens due to their geopolitical positioning, military neutrality, and stable conditions, offering refuge in a World War III scenario. Antarctica Antarctica's extreme southern location makes it one of the safest places during a nuclear war, with vast distances from nuclear powers. Its 14 million square kilometers offer plenty of space for refuge, though the harsh, icy climate can be challenging for survival. Iceland Consistently ranked as one of the most peaceful countries, Iceland has never participated in a full-scale war. Its remote geographical location makes it less susceptible to conventional warfare in Europe, though nuclear fallout could reach it in small amounts. New Zealand With a neutral stance and ranking second in the Global Peace Index, New Zealand offers protection through its mountainous terrain. It is unlikely to be targeted in a Western conflict with Russia, though it has supported Ukraine financially. Switzerland Known for its neutrality, especially during World War II, Switzerland is well-protected by its mountainous landscape and nuclear shelters. Its political neutrality has kept it safe from enemies, and it has not contributed to Ukraine's military efforts. Greenland As the world's largest island, Greenland's remote location and political neutrality make it an unlikely target. Its sparse population of 56,000 further reduces its risk in a global conflict. Indonesia Indonesia maintains a neutral foreign policy, with an emphasis on world peace. Its independent stance and geopolitical positioning make it less likely to be drawn into global conflicts. Tuvalu A small island nation with just 11,000 residents, Tuvalu's limited infrastructure and resources make it an undesirable target. Its location between Hawaii and Australia offers geographical isolation. Argentina Rich in crops like wheat, Argentina could survive a nuclear winter, with food supplies even in the event of global famine. Despite its history of conflict, it remains a relatively safe haven due to its agricultural resources. Bhutan Since declaring neutrality in 1971, Bhutan has remained shielded by its mountainous terrain and landlocked geography. Its strategic position makes it easier to defend from external threats. Chile Chile's extensive coastline, spanning 4,000 miles, and its abundant natural resources provide safety and sustainability. Its advanced infrastructure makes it one of the most developed countries in South America. Fiji Located 2,700 miles from Australia, Fiji's remote location, lack of military focus, and dense forests make it a peaceful haven. Its minimal army and high rank on the Global Peace Index add to its safety. South Africa With abundant fertile land, fresh water, and modern infrastructure, South Africa offers good chances of survival. Its diverse resources and agricultural potential ensure the country can sustain its population during crises.
Hans India
an hour ago
- Hans India
National Education Policy will transform India's educational landscape: VP
Noida: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday said the National Education Policy (NEP) when implemented will transform India's educational landscape as the policy resonates with the country's 'civilizational spirit, sense and ethos'. Dhankhar shared his thoughts as he addressed the inaugural session of the 99th annual meet and national conference of the vice chancellors organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) at the Amity University here. 'I must share with you that after more than three decades something has happened which has truly changed the landscape of our education. I am referring to the National Education Policy 2020,' he told the gathering of academic leaders. Reflecting on his experience as the former governor of West Bengal, the vice president said that he was closely associated with the development of this policy. 'Input from hundreds of thousands of people was considered in shaping this policy after more than three decades,' said Dhankhar. 'The policy resonates with our civilizational spirit, sense and ethos, and it will transform our educational system when implemented,' he added. The vice president also urged for making universities a catalyst for big change and 'not just hand out degrees' as he also stressed the need in academia for space for disagreement, debate, dialogue and discussion. 'Our universities are not meant to just hand out degrees. The degrees must carry great weightage,' he said on the role of universities. Asserting that the universities 'must be sanctuaries of ideas and ideation, crucibles of innovation', the vice president said 'these places have to catalyse big change'. 'That responsibility lies on the vice chancellors in particular and the academia in general. I appeal to you, there must be space for disagreement, debate, dialogue and discussion. That is how the mind cells are activated. Abhivyakti, Vaad Vivaad, Anant Vaad — these are inalienable facets of our civilisation, of our democracy,' he added. Calling for equitable expansion of higher education, the vice president said, 'A lot of our institutions have remained brown-field. Let us fall in line with the global groove — let's go green. Greenfield institutions alone bring about equitable distribution. There is clusterization in metros and Tier 1 cities. Many regions remain untouched.' 'Let's go in for greenfield institutions in such areas. The vice chancellors are not only the watchdogs, but impregnable bulwarks against commodification and commercialisation of education. One of our fundamental objectives is to ensure affordability, reach and accessibility of quality education for ordinary people,' he added. The vice president said he firmly believed education is a great equalizer and it 'brings about equality as no other mechanism does'. 'Education decimates inequities. As a matter of fact, education gives life to democracy,' he said. The vice president also paid tribute to BJP ideologue and Jana Sangha founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 'Balidan Diwas' on Monday, calling it a historic day. 'It's a great day in the history of our nation. Today is the 'Balidan Diwas' of one of the finest sons of the soil, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. The name itself is revered,' he said. Recalling Mookerjee's contribution to the integration of Jammu and Kashmir, Dhankhar highlighted the powerful slogan that he raised during his campaign in 1952: 'Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan aur Ek Pradhan hoga desh mein, do nahin honge'. 'For too long, we suffered under Article 370, which bled both us and the state of Jammu and Kashmir in several ways,' he said, paying tributes to Mookerjee. Highlighting India's potential to lead in knowledge domains, the vice president said, 'When you look around the world, you'll understand its significance. The state of education defines not only the state of academics, but the state of the nation. We cannot remain perpetual students of Western innovation when our demographic dividend position says, as the world's knowledge epicenter.' 'And when we look back in our ancient history, we are reminded of our rich past. It is time Bharat must build world-class institutions, not just to teach, but to pioneer. These are not mere disciplines. These are levers of assurance of our sovereignty in all times to come,' he added.
