Union education minister urges state universities to drive India’s growth under PM-USHA framework

At a national-level workshop focused on transforming India's higher education system, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged state universities to align with the vision of a future-ready India.

The two-day event, titled the National Workshop on Multi-disciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU), was held under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) scheme on May 1.

It brought together key education leaders from across the country to strategize the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Organized by the Ministry of Education, the workshop aimed to facilitate a collaborative platform for state universities to reimagine their role in advancing higher education.

Through dynamic discussions and interactive sessions, participants explored ways to infuse a multi-disciplinary approach into curriculum and research models while also focusing on national development priorities.

Addressing the participants, Minister Pradhan said, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the esteemed members of the education fraternity for their contributions to this workshop. I am confident that this two-day brainstorming session will pave the way for a future-ready strategy for our state universities, fulfilling the nation’s expectations under the PM-USHA initiative.”

He highlighted the long-standing legacy of Indian universities in shaping intellect and character, recalling former President Dr Rajendra Prasad’s view that learning often extends beyond the classroom.

“Dr Prasad believed universities are not just centers of study but also hubs for character building. It is our collective responsibility to create campuses that meet the demands of the modern era,” he said.

Drawing historical parallels, he referenced Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya’s founding of Banaras Hindu University, aimed at fostering national unity.

Focusing on the future, Pradhan echoed the Prime Minister’s directive to transition from conventional “Research & Development” to “Research for Development.”

He called on universities to craft a 25-year strategic roadmap that aligns with India’s economic goals.

“India is progressing rapidly despite challenges. In the coming years, our economy will reach $30 trillion, making us one of the top three global economies. Our universities must prepare now to support this growth,” he remarked.

Pradhan emphasized the adoption of modern teaching methods and regional languages to make education more inclusive and impactful.

He encouraged institutions to become role models for NEP implementation and societal transformation.

“By aligning with national priorities and societal needs, universities must develop a strategic roadmap for the future,” he said.

He also urged universities to evolve from being “degree-awarding institutions” to “competence-enhancing institutions.”

Stressing quality education, increased enrollment, and greater employability, Pradhan said that the goals of the PM-USHA scheme are closely linked to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also equipped to drive social and economic change.

“Our goal is not just material growth but also character growth, and universities must lead in fulfilling this social aspiration,” he added.

The event concluded with a group photograph and scenes of camaraderie, with Minister Pradhan interacting with attendees and commemorating the occasion.

Visuals from the workshop included images of participants in discussion, the minister addressing the audience, and banners featuring the event theme, which underscored the government’s commitment to holistic educational reform.

Seen as a vital step toward realizing the aspirations of NEP 2020, the workshop reaffirmed the role of PM-USHA in providing financial and strategic support to state universities.

As Minister Pradhan concluded, “Let us work together to build universities that not only produce graduates but also nurture leaders who will drive India’s growth in the 21st century, with the support of transformative initiatives like PM-USHA.”