Education Dept. taking steps to address challenges faced by universities

Universities in the State have been persistently suffering from issues such as recruitment processes, need for enhanced infrastructure, budgetary limitations, provision of scholarships and mess charge dues. These not only hinder academic excellence and student welfare, but also affect the overall growth and development of universities.

These ‘core challenges’ were discussed at a meeting held by the vice-chancellors of several universities recently.

According to the Telangana Council of Higher Education (TGCHE) Chairman V. Balakista Reddy, Principal Secretary (Education) N. Sridhar has initiated steps for discussion and exchange of ideas on what needs to be done.

Advancing higher education in the State as a priority, TGCHE said that a detailed report on the challenges pointed out by the university heads would be submitted to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

Mr. Sridhar has suggested constituting separate committees to address issues in the higher education sector. These committees would examine recruitment processes and career advancement, affiliation and rankings.

The panel to prepare the modalities for recruitment of teachers will comprise vice-chancellors of BRAOU, Osmania University, Mahatma Gandhi University, and two additional experts.

Mr. Sridhar also suggested universities to explore alternative funding means such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS).

Mr. Balakista Reddy added that TGCHE was “on a mission” to deliver quality higher education to the doorstep of the needy at an affordable cost, focussing on inclusive knowledge environment with practical skills supported by technology and expert guidance.

The Council has also initiated steps to revise the under-graduate curriculum to align with market demands and industry requirements, and a committee was overseeing this exercise.

Published - December 15, 2024 08:03 pm IST