AICTE chief calls for enhanced focus on Higher Education Enrolment to achieve national goals
During the recent convocation of Bengaluru City University (BCU), TG Sitharaman, Chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), expressed concern over the disparity between school education enrolment and Higher Educational Institutes (HEIs) enrolment in the country.
Sitharaman pointed out that despite more than 25 crore students enrolled in schools, only 28.3% of students pursue higher education. He emphasized that developed countries typically achieve higher enrollment rates of over 85% in HEIs. Addressing this challenge, Sitharaman disclosed the government's goal to increase the Gross Enrollment Ratio to 50% by 2035.
Highlighting infrastructure limitations, Sitharaman noted that with 1,100 universities and 45,000 colleges, India currently serves approximately 4.3 crore students. He stressed the need to double the educational network and leverage digital technologies to accommodate future demands.
Amidst technological advancements, Sitharaman underscored the importance of critical thinking and continuous upskilling. He acknowledged the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI on job markets, urging adaptability for sustainable growth.
Karnataka Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar echoed the importance of inclusive education to empower youth. He acknowledged the issue of vacant teaching and non-teaching positions in universities, pledging action to recruit experienced personnel. Sudhakar encouraged students to integrate knowledge with practical skills to enhance employability.
The convocation highlighted the imperative for India to enhance higher education accessibility and quality amidst evolving global trends and challenges.
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