Revamped Curriculum in Uttarakhand: Free Higher Education for Orphaned Students - Insights from Kumaun University's V-C Prof Diwan S. Rawat (IANS Interview)

New Delhi, Dec 31 (NationPress) Uttarakhand is gearing up to introduce a new undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) syllabus in the upcoming year, crafted under the guidance of Kumaun University's Vice-Chancellor, Prof Diwan S. Rawat. In a special interview with IANS, Prof Rawat elaborated on the motivations, strategies, and partnerships that are driving the University’s innovative initiatives, which encompass free education for orphans and a substantial Rs 100 crore grant from the Central Government as part of the Prime Minister's Higher Education Campaign. He also highlighted collaborations with experts from America, Japan, France, and Germany. The university is also establishing connections with Indian military professionals.

Here are some key excerpts from the interview.

IANS: What necessitates a new syllabus?

Prof Rawat: The existing syllabus for UG and PG courses is entirely outdated. For instance, science students are grappling with obsolete concepts, as technology has evolved significantly. We require a curriculum that mirrors contemporary advancements and equips students to face real-world challenges.

IANS: What will the new syllabus encompass, and will it be adopted by all universities?

Prof Rawat: Certainly, it will be implemented across all universities and colleges in Uttarakhand. We are developing a research-oriented, scientific syllabus with insights from specialists at esteemed institutions like Delhi University. We have also consulted industry leaders to ensure the syllabus cultivates skills that meet market demands.

IANS: Is the University receiving assistance from the Central Government?

Prof Rawat: Yes, we have secured a Rs 100 crore grant through the Prime Minister's Higher Education Campaign. This marks the first time the University has obtained such a significant grant, which will be utilized to modernize classrooms and laboratories, foster innovation centers and interdisciplinary research, establish a Centre for Excellence in Himalayan Medicinal Plants and Wellness Lifestyle, create a Patent Cell, and provide internal research funding for faculty.

IANS: How are resources being optimized to enhance research?

Prof Rawat: We have initiated reforms to reduce costs. For example, we have established a transparent process for printing question papers and answer sheets, saving Rs 4.5 crore annually. These savings are being reinvested in research and infrastructure. Recently, we allocated Rs 1.25 crore to support researchers. Furthermore, we are offering free education to students who have lost both parents and are unable to pay tuition fees.

IANS: Are there any partnerships with international institutions?

Prof Rawat: Absolutely. We have formed collaborations with Georgia University in the USA and have visiting faculty from nations such as the USA, China, Japan, Sweden, France, and Germany. Additionally, we hold a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Chargé CCCV (C4V) in New York, which provides Rs 8 lakh annually for PhD students for research. Moreover, we are collaborating with the American Chemical Society (ACS) and maintaining close ties with IIT Roorkee and IIM Kashipur.

IANS: How is the University leveraging Uttarakhand’s military connections?

Prof Rawat: Uttarakhand has strong ties with the armed forces. We have established a Directorate for Visiting and Honorary Professors, appointing retired military officers as visiting professors. They offer free training programs for NDA, SSB, and CDS aspirants. We are also exploring partnerships with military academies for collaborative research and training initiatives.

IANS: How is the University addressing the issue of migration in Uttarakhand?

Prof Rawat: To combat migration, we aim to connect academia with industry. We host job fairs, industry-academic meetings, and skill enhancement programs. By linking students with local industries, we are fostering employment opportunities within the state.