JNTUA Vice-Chancellor calls for radical changes in higher education system
Participating as panel speaker at the World Education Summit, Sudarsana Rao says universities should transform into centres that foster creativity, a research-oriented mindset, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to lifelong learning among students
Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur (JNTUA) Vice-Chancellor H. Sudarsana Rao called for significant changes in the higher education system during a panel discussion at the World Education Summit in New Delhi. Rao spoke on the topic "Reimagining Higher Education for Global Skills – Positioning India as a Global Leader through Talent Prepared for Future Needs," emphasizing the need for radical changes to align with evolving global demands, rapid technological advancements, and industry skill requirements.
Rao argued that universities should evolve into centers fostering creativity, research-oriented thinking, problem-solving skills, practical knowledge, ethical values, and a commitment to lifelong learning, rather than merely awarding degrees. He outlined four key priorities for transforming higher education: shaping skilled graduates, strengthening links between institutions and global industries, prioritizing digital education, artificial intelligence, research, and innovation, and implementing progressive educational policies to create dynamic universities.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed evaluating student success based on actual skills, practical knowledge, multidisciplinary understanding, and creative thinking, rather than solely on academic qualifications. Rao stressed the importance of experiential learning, project-based instruction, and flexible educational pathways to prepare students for future job opportunities and global competition.
Rao also highlighted the need for effective partnerships among universities, international educational institutions, research centers, and industries. He pointed out that digital technology is crucial in making quality education accessible to all, suggesting the expansion of structured e-content, modern teaching methodologies, and technology-driven learning systems.
Rao emphasized the universities' primary objectives should be fostering a research-oriented mindset among the youth, developing their capacity to find innovative solutions to real-world problems, and preparing them to seize global opportunities through quality teaching, research, technological innovation, industry linkages, and the development of world-class skills.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
