Tripura CM urges university students to focus on research, innovation and emerging technologies

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has called on university students to broaden their knowledge and focus on research and innovation aimed at addressing societal needs, while urging Tripura University to strengthen its focus on emerging technologies.

Speaking at the 40th foundation day celebration of Tripura University at Suryamaninagar in West Tripura district, Saha highlighted the role of the institution in strengthening higher education and preparing students for the state's future development.

"The university has a critical role in shaping the future of the students so that the state could meet its thrust for development, growth and prosperity," he said.

Tripura University was converted into a central university in 2017, a step aimed at supporting the overall development of higher education in the state, Saha said.

He urged the university authorities to give greater attention to artificial intelligence and digital technology so that students can develop their abilities and take advantage of opportunities in an increasingly connected world.

"The students shall not only focus on academic activities but also cultivate their learning and knowledge to meet the needs of society. Therefore, high-quality research and innovation should be given priority," he said.

Saha said education, research and innovation would remain key drivers of the state's development agenda under 'Viksit Tripura.'

He added that the government is committed to creating more opportunities for students and enabling young people to make meaningful contributions to the state's progress.

The foundation day event also saw the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with different institutions.

The agreements are aimed at introducing programs covering academic support, entrepreneurship and industrial assistance.

Chandrasekhar Ghosh, chairman of Bandhan Group and guest of honor at the convocation, stressed the need for Tripura University's efforts to produce more IT professionals who can meet the requirements of a future-ready workforce.

"We have brought an IT company which is operating from New York, London, Dubai and Hong Kong. If we want to expand its activities to Tripura, the company requires IT professionals. I appeal to the government to focus on building IT professionals," he said.

Ghosh also announced that Bandhan Group has sanctioned ₹10 crore for Tripura University to establish an entrepreneurship development center of excellence.

"Our target is to prepare at least 100 entrepreneurs by using ₹10 crore, and we will support equity to them so that they can set up a venture in the future," he said.