Vineet Joshi, the Secretary of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education, Government of India, conducted a review meeting on higher education in Bishnupur district. During this meeting, college authorities reported significant issues regarding student attendance and infrastructure. It was noted that girl students make up nearly one-third of the total student body, yet maintaining attendance remains a critical challenge, particularly for those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. In response, principals recommended the introduction of skill-oriented and employability-focused courses to encourage students to earn while studying, which could enhance their motivation to attend classes regularly. Joshi acknowledged the importance of such grassroots feedback, stressing that aligning traditional education with modern demands is essential for fostering student engagement.
He pointed out that under the National Credit Framework established by the UGC, students can now earn academic credits through sports, skill development, and experiential learning. Joshi encouraged institutions to adopt the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme, which offers two years of internships through collaboration between the government and private sectors, particularly benefiting students from lower-income backgrounds. He urged educational stakeholders to leverage programs like the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme for broader student benefits and highlighted the growing significance of emerging technologies, urging awareness initiatives around Artificial Intelligence to prepare students for future job markets. Moreover, he emphasized the establishment of an entrepreneurial mindset as crucial, which should start from foundational education.
Deputy Commissioner Pooja Elangbam reiterated the meeting’s goal of improving the quality, accessibility, and relevance of higher education in the district. She viewed the review meeting as a valuable opportunity to evaluate current achievements, recognize challenges, and outline a progressive future roadmap. Elangbam underscored the necessity for higher education to adapt continually to meet societal needs and advancements in technology. Furthermore, she highlighted the need for collaborative planning and data-driven reviews to enhance academic standards, improve infrastructure, and promote inclusive learning opportunities. The meeting saw attendance from various dignitaries, including district-level officials, college principals, faculty members, and students, with plans for ongoing stakeholder engagement to fortify the higher education ecosystem in Bishnupur.
