Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel urged universities to actively participate in social transformation by involving students in grassroots development initiatives. He emphasized the importance of higher educational institutions going beyond academic activities to help students comprehend the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Patel suggested that universities should adopt villages, encouraging students to engage in development activities to foster social sensitivity and a better understanding of the country’s developmental needs.
The Governor highlighted the significance of students’ involvement in village-level programs and welfare initiatives to nurture responsible citizenship and meaningful societal contributions. He also stressed the necessity of students’ participation in government schemes like PM-JANMAN and Dharti Aaba Gram Utkarsh Yojana, focusing on tribal and backward communities’ development. Patel underscored the role of universities in imparting not just knowledge and skills but also values and social responsibility to students.
Furthermore, Patel recommended universities to introduce certificate and diploma programs aligned with job opportunities and self-employment to enhance employment-oriented education. He proposed the establishment of certification systems for agriculture-related activities to create new livelihood options for rural youth. Additionally, the Governor suggested organizing alumni placement conferences biennially to provide career guidance and enhance students’ employment prospects.
In line with the global popularity of Yoga, Patel urged universities to integrate Yoga into campus life through regular activities in colleges and hostels. The meeting, which included discussions on government and private universities’ operations, was attended by Vice-Chancellors and senior officials from the Higher Education Department.
