Higher education is not just about imparting knowledge and skills to students, but also about developing honesty, compassion, moral leadership qualities and a responsible attitude towards society, said Mr Matukumilli Sribharat, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Visakhapatnam and President of Gitam Deemed to Be University.
Mr Sribharat, who participated as the chief guest today at the inaugural session of the DG100X Andhra Pradesh Higher Education Leadership Conference welcomed the education sector leaders, vice-chancellors, directors, trustees, industry representatives and policy makers from various states of the country.
He said that this conference will serve as a platform for mutual learning, exchange of experiences and creative discussions in the field of education and added that such platforms are very necessary to further strengthen the Indian higher education system.
Sribharat said that the role of higher education institutions is very crucial in shaping the future generations.
He said that students need to not only excel in education but also grow into citizens with values, ethics and responsibility.
The Lok Sabha MP believed that only when knowledge is combined with honesty and compassion can a society achieve sustainable development.
Talking about the goals of Gitam University, he said that they are working to make Gitam a knowledge center that can bring positive change in the society based on a culture of honesty and compassion.
Although building such a culture is challenging, it is essential for the future of the education sector.
Mr Sribharat mentioned the regulatory constraints currently faced by higher educational institutions in the country, lack of autonomy, and the need for more coordination between the government-educational institutions-industry.
He however expressed hope that the education reforms will be implemented soon & will create a more conducive environment for educational institutions.
Mr Sribharat appreciated the steps being taken by the government for the development of higher education in Andhra Pradesh.
The MP affirmed that talent is being given priority in the appointments of vice-chancellors and heads of educational institutions without any room for political influences and noted that this policy is instilling confidence in academicians.
He called on private universities, industries and educational institutions to work together for the development of state universities.
Mutual cooperation is essential to build strong institutions that promote quality education, research and innovation, said Mr Sribharat.
