In a significant move to enhance skill-based education and promote regional growth, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has given the green light to establish 17 new professional colleges in tribal, hilly, and underdeveloped districts of the state. The decision was made during a meeting of the Maharashtra State Higher Education and Development Commission chaired by the Chief Minister. These new colleges will focus on Engineering, Architecture, Hotel Management, and B.Voc courses in seven identified districts.
Fadnavis emphasized the importance of aligning education with evolving industrial needs and emerging job opportunities. The government’s priority is to ensure balanced regional development by setting up professional institutions in districts like Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Hingoli, Washim, Dharashiv, Sindhudurg, and Parbhani. Additionally, the state has decided to halt the establishment of new B.Pharmacy or D.Pharmacy institutions until the academic year 2030-31.
The state government aims to update the education system to meet industrial demands and technological advancements. New skill development centers will be established to bridge the gap between human capital and talent capital. Engineering and B.Voc colleges will be spread across all seven priority districts, while Architecture colleges will be concentrated in Dharashiv and Parbhani, and HMCT institutes in Nandurbar and Sindhudurg.
Chief Minister Fadnavis stressed the integration of the National Education Policy, focusing on multidisciplinary learning. He also directed traditional colleges to introduce Social Work as an independent faculty to enhance students’ skill sets. The government’s focus is on preparing youth for employment by developing curricula aligned with modern industry requirements. Over 61,000 students have already received industry-friendly skills training through the Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skill University.
