In a major step towards transforming higher education in Assam, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya addressed the ‘Higher Education in Assam 2025’ conference at the Assam Administrative Staff College on Friday. Organized by Raj Bhavan in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education, the conference brought together key stakeholders, including Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu, Vice Chancellors of public and private universities, Principals of autonomous colleges, and renowned academicians.
Governor Acharya’s address focused on the critical role of higher education in societal development, emphasizing the need for curriculum reforms, research advancements, digital learning integration, and university-industry partnerships.
Higher Education: The Backbone of Development
During his speech, Governor Acharya highlighted the historical evolution of Assam’s education system, tracing its roots from ancient Vedic learning to its current status as an emerging educational hub. He stressed the importance of modern teaching methodologies, digital platforms, and research-driven approaches in addressing contemporary challenges.
A key issue raised was the disconnect between academic curriculam and industry needs, which has led to low employability among graduates. To bridge this gap, the governor advocated for stronger university-industry collaborations to ensure students receive hands-on experience through internships, vocational training, and practical skill development.
Strengthening University-Industry Collaboration
One of the main takeaways from the conference was the governor’s push for closer ties between universities and industries. He underscored the importance of:
- Industry-oriented curricula that equip students with real-world skills.
- Internship programs and vocational training to enhance employability.
- Stronger engagement between academic institutions and corporate sectors to create a workforce aligned with market demands.
By aligning academic curricula with industry requirements, Governor Acharya believes Assam can drive economic growth while improving job prospects for students.
Promoting Inclusive and Research-Driven Education
Governor Acharya emphasized the need for inclusive education policies, ensuring that higher education remains accessible to all students, regardless of their socio-economic background. He advocated for:
- Greater focus on research and interdisciplinary studies to strengthen Assam’s academic standing globally.
- International collaborations with renowned institutions to improve quality education and research opportunities.
- Targeted interventions to reduce dropout rates, including mentorship programs and career counseling.
Additionally, he stressed the urgency of filling vacant teaching positions to improve faculty strength and teaching quality.
Enhancing Digital Learning & Technological Integration
Governor Acharya commended Assam’s progress in digital learning and urged institutions to fully integrate online education into their curricula. Key recommendations included:
- Expanding participation in the SWAYAM platform to offer MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses).
- Adopting the e-SAMARTH platform for streamlining data management and promoting transparency.
- Encouraging female participation in technical education to enhance gender inclusivity.
With technology playing a vital role in modern education, the governor stressed the need for digital platforms and AI-driven solutions to improve the learning experience.
Ensuring Fair Academic Evaluations & Student Welfare
To standardize academic assessments, Acharya suggested:
- A common academic calendar and uniform grading system to maintain fairness in evaluations.
- A structured Grievance Redressal Mechanism to address student concerns related to academics, administration, and personal issues.
These measures aim to create a more structured and transparent higher education system in Assam.
The conference on Higher Education in Assam 2025 marked an important step toward shaping the future of Assam’s education sector. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya’s advocacy for stronger university-industry collaboration, digital learning integration, research-driven initiatives, and inclusive education highlights the path toward a more dynamic and globally competitive academic environment.
By addressing key concerns such as faculty vacancies, student dropout rates, and curriculum relevance, the conference underscored the urgent need for reform and modernization in Assam’s higher education system. The push for mentorship programs, interdisciplinary studies, and skill-based learning will not only enhance employability but also contribute to the state’s overall economic progress.
As Assam continues to evolve as an educational hub, the collective efforts of the government, academia, and industry stakeholders will be crucial in realizing this vision. The implementation of Governor Acharya’s recommendations will help build a more efficient, accessible, and research-oriented higher education framework that empowers students, strengthens institutions, and accelerates the state’s intellectual and economic growth.
