Ranchi, May 21: Jharkhand Governor and Chancellor of Universities, Santosh Kumar Gangwar, emphasized the need for significant reforms in the state’s higher education system. Speaking at the inaugural session of a two-day Vice-Chancellors’ conference organized by the Department of Higher and Technical Education in Ranchi, he urged universities to evolve beyond merely being degree-awarding institutions and become robust centers for innovation and skill development.
The Governor pointed out that while the state’s school education is relatively better, higher education still requires major improvements. He expressed deep concern over the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education being significantly lower than the national average. He also highlighted the serious issue of dropout rates, noting that many students are compelled to leave the state in search of quality education, timely examinations, and job-oriented courses.
Gangwar stated, “The day students in Jharkhand feel they do not need to leave the state for better education, we will consider our efforts successful.” He appealed to Vice-Chancellors to take on the role of academic leaders, ensuring regular classes, timely examinations, and prompt publication of results.
To enhance transparency, accountability, and academic excellence in higher education, he announced the implementation of the ‘Jharkhand State Universities Act 2026’ and urged all Vice-Chancellors and university officials to study the new law seriously. The Governor also stressed the importance of promoting research, innovation, startups, skill-based education, and industry linkages.
He reiterated that universities should not just be degree-granting institutions but should also develop into centers for skill development and innovation. On this occasion, Dr. Nitin Kulkarni, the Governor’s Additional Chief Secretary, remarked that discussions alone will not suffice; a focus on results-based education is essential. He added that universities should engage in research linked to societal and local issues. Dr. Kulkarni also emphasized the need for educators to continuously update themselves in line with new technologies and artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting the importance of developing logical and analytical thinking among students.