JNTUA Vice-Chancellor calls for radical changes in higher education system

In a proud moment for Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur (JNTUA), the university’s Vice-Chancellor H. Sudarsana Rao participated as a panel speaker at the World Education Summit held in New Delhi. He shared valuable insights on the future of higher education, global skill development, and the role of universities in national progress.

Mr. Sudarsana Rao shared his ideas on the topic “Panel Discussion 1: Reimagining Higher Education for Global Skills – Positioning India as a Global Leader through Talent Prepared for Future Needs.” He emphasised the need for radical changes in the Indian higher education system to align with evolving global demands, rapid technological advancements, and the skill requirements of the industry.

The JNTUA Vice-Chancellor suggested that universities should transform into centres that foster creativity, a research-oriented mindset, problem-solving abilities, skills, ethical values, and a commitment to lifelong learning among students, rather than functioning merely as institutions that award degrees.

He highlighted four priorities for transforming higher education — shaping skilled future graduates, strong linkages between educational institutions and global industries, emphasis on digital education, artificial intelligence, research and innovation, and progressive educational policies – building dynamic universities.

He emphasised the need to evaluate student success based on actual skills, practical knowledge, multidisciplinary understanding, and creative thinking, rather than relying solely on academic qualifications. “Students should be prepared for future job opportunities and global competition through experiential learning, project-based instruction, and flexible educational pathways,” Mr. Sudarsana Rao emphasised.

Mr. Sudarsana Rao also highlighted the necessity of effective partnerships among universities, international educational institutions, research centres, and industries. He noted that digital technology plays a pivotal role in making quality education accessible to all. The Vice-Chancellor suggested expanding the development of structured e-content, modern teaching methodologies, and technology-driven learning systems.

He stressed that the primary objectives of universities should be to foster a research-oriented mindset among the youth, develop their capacity to find innovative solutions to real-world problems, and prepare them to seize global opportunities.

Mr. Sudarsana Rao articulated the need to prepare students for the future through quality teaching, research, technological innovation, industry linkages, and the development of world-class skills.