How is Telangana CM Ensuring the Preservation of Heritage Buildings on OU Campus?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Preservation: Heritage buildings will be safeguarded in the development plans.
- Investment: A commitment of Rs 1,000 crore has been made for university upgrades.
- Student Involvement: Student and faculty opinions are prioritized in planning.
- Modern Facilities: New construction will include enhanced hostel and academic spaces.
- Environmental Focus: Urban Forestry funds will be explored for green initiatives.
Hyderabad, Dec 5 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the historic and heritage buildings located on the Osmania University campus, in conjunction with the construction of new facilities as part of the university's development strategy.
He disclosed plans to visit Osmania University (OU) on December 10, with the objective of finalizing the university's development initiatives by the end of the month.
During a review meeting with senior officials, he stated that there should be no reluctance in allocating necessary funds for the enhancement of OU.
He recommended focusing resources on the construction of new buildings rather than on expensive repairs of non-heritage structures.
Additionally, he urged for meticulous attention to all facets of development, such as cycle tracks and walking paths, and proposed the installation of symbolic structures that represent the historic movements of OU students.
During a previous visit to the university in August, the Chief Minister had declared intentions to elevate Osmania University to the standards of Stanford and Oxford universities, with a commitment of Rs 1,000 crore for this purpose.
In the recent meeting, he instructed officials to prioritize feedback from both students and faculty in the development plan.
Officials presented updates on forthcoming projects, and the Chief Minister reviewed development models through PowerPoint presentations.
CM Revanth Reddy proposed various alterations to the designs of hostel buildings, roads, academic blocks, and auditoriums.
He also encouraged officials to consider utilizing Urban Forestry funds for enhancements in the university’s green areas.
The Chief Minister directed that existing water resources on the campus be safeguarded and assessed for potential new sources.
For hostel and academic facilities, he mandated that new constructions should accommodate an additional 10 percent of students beyond current needs, ensuring comfort for both students and staff.
The Chief Minister confirmed his visit to Osmania University on the 10th of this month to inspect academic buildings and hostels and instructed officials to gather feedback from students and faculty regarding development proposals.
He emphasized that development models should be presented to stakeholders first, followed by the establishment of drop boxes and a dedicated website for feedback collection. He insisted that their suggestions be given due weight in finalizing development plans by the end of the month.
The review meeting was attended by key figures including Chief Minister’s Advisor Vem Narender Reddy, State Government Advisor Keshava Rao, CM’s Special Secretary Ajit Reddy, Education Department Principal Secretary Yogita Rana, Commissioner of Technical Education Sridevasena, Osmania University Vice-Chancellor Prof. M. Kumar, Arts College Principal Prof. Kasim, among others.