Bhopal, June 25 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel on Thursday called upon universities to play a greater role in social transformation by connecting students with rural communities and involving them in grassroots development initiatives.

Addressing the 102nd meeting of the University Coordination Committee at Lok Bhavan, Patel said higher educational institutions should not remain confined to academic activities alone but must help students understand the realities and challenges faced by disadvantaged sections of society.

The Governor suggested that universities adopt villages and encourage students to participate in development activities and engage directly with rural communities. He said such exposure would help students develop social sensitivity and a deeper understanding of the country’s developmental needs.

“Students should be actively involved in village-level programmes and welfare initiatives. The experience gained through such engagement will help them become responsible citizens and contribute meaningfully to society,” Patel said.

He also stressed the need to involve students in the implementation and awareness of flagship government schemes, including PM-JANMAN and Dharti Aaba Gram Utkarsh Yojana, aimed at the development of tribal and backward communities.

Patel observed that parents send their children to universities with the hope of securing a better future, making it the responsibility of educational institutions to impart not only knowledge and professional skills but also values and a sense of social responsibility.

The Governor also highlighted the importance of employment-oriented education and suggested that universities introduce more certificate and diploma programmes linked to job opportunities and self-employment.

He further advocated the development of certification systems for agriculture-related activities to create new livelihood avenues for rural youth.

To strengthen career guidance for students, Patel proposed that universities organise alumni placement conferences every two years. Such interactions, he said, would enable students to learn from successful graduates and improve their employment prospects.

Referring to the growing global popularity of Yoga, the Governor urged universities to make Yoga a regular part of campus life through periodic activities in colleges and hostels.

The meeting reviewed issues related to the functioning of government and private universities in the state.

Higher Education Minister Inder Singh Parmar emphasised financial discipline and transparency in university administration and called for strict adherence to prescribed financial norms.

Vice-Chancellors of government and private universities, along with senior officials of the Higher Education Department, attended the meeting.

–IANS

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