Governor urges universities to focus on skill development in Telangana

Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla urged universities to prioritise skill development, academic reforms, and employability. He stressed industry collaboration and full implementation of the National Education Policy during a meeting with Vice-Chancellors and higher education officials.

Hyderabad: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Thursday urged Vice-Chancellors of universities to accord special emphasis to skill development of students and continuous academic improvement.

The Governor, who is also chancellor of the State universities, chaired a meeting with VCs and higher education department officials at Lok Bhavan here.

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During the meeting, Telangana Council of Higher Education (TGCHE) Chairman Prof V Balakista Reddy briefed the Governor on the reforms implemented in higher education over the past year, including introduction of new courses, promotion of research, and initiatives aimed at skill development.

Vice-Chancellors, in turn, outlined the innovative programmes being implemented in their respective universities, measures taken to ensure transparency in admissions, reforms undertaken, and the challenges being faced.

The Governor appreciated the efforts of universities such as Osmania University, Kakatiya University, and JNTU. He said universities should not remain institutions that merely confer degrees, but evolve into centres that enhance employability and offer education aligned with global standards. He stressed the need for appointing quality faculty, strengthening training, and ensuring continuous academic development.

The Governor also called for closer coordination with industry to promote research, innovation, and practical solutions.

Emphasising skill development and employment-oriented education, he urged universities to prioritise implementation of the National Education Policy and initiatives aimed at making youth self-reliant.