Varsities must equip students with start-up skills: Governor

Tribune News Service

Dehradun, October 21

Governor KK Paul today said universities must orient themselves to develop an academic base which would help build confidence among students and equip them with skills for start-ups and entrepreneurship.

In this era of globalisation, universities face the challenge of creating a global cadre of youth with education that will equip them to take up research and play leadership roles, he said at the 13th convocation of Kumaun University, where he was the chief guest, here today.

“In a fast changing global economic scenario, our youth have to be prepared to face the challenge of competition,” he said.

Kumaun University has been able to adhere to its academic calendar which is an achievement. “The university has got an “A” Certificate from the National Assessment and Accredition Council (NAAC) and should ensure, through sustained efforts, that it moves towards greater achievements.”

The Governor said the university should focus more on patents. The Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Centre of the university must accelerate its research activities. He said that it was appreciable that Kumaun University had started working towards creating possibilities of cooperation and collaboration through joint research and technological development programmes with international institutions.

“Besides the established disciplines, our universities should now focus on the emerging areas such as environmental studies, information and communication technology, bio-informatics and entrepreneurship development. Educational institutions must move with the changing times and think in terms of special courses on various skills. Curriculum planners must draw up designs that are not only more relevant and job oriented, but also futuristic,” he said.

The Governor congratulated scholars and students who have been judged meritorious and received medals for their excellent performances. He also congratulated Vice-Chancellor HS Dhami, faculty members, supporting staff and the parents of the students.