Ancient India had globally reputed universities whereas the institutions started here during British rule were limited to the needs of the colonial requirements and had no concern for the welfare and skill development of the masses, opined, Tamil Nadu Governor, Banwarilal Purohit. He was speaking at the inauguration session of Gyanotsav 2020, an education conclave organized by the RSS affiliated Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas (SSUN) at the National College in Tiruchy.
Banwarilal Purohit said, "In ancient times, India had global institutions like the Takshashila and Nalanda University. They attracted scholars from all over the world. However, with the passage of time these world-renowned institutions declined and the British started institutions after them modeled on what was happening in Europe were limited to their needs." In the conclave, more than 65 institutions from all over the state participated. Over the next two days, representatives of these institutions would conduct discussions and presentations on various ways they could use to impart value-added education to their students.
Further speaking at the event, the Governor emphasized on the need to be religious minded. He said, " Irrespective of any religion you follow, Hindu, Christianity or Islam it is important to be religious minded and make sure you always thank god. If you are religious minded, you will avoid committing sin, as you know that the god is watching." The Governor also appreciated the efforts made by India after independence in higher education. He quoted the statistics that India had 993 Universities and 39,931 colleges and also appreciated the Tamil Nadu reputation of enjoying a high gross enrollment ratio.
Tamil Nadu has a gross enrollment ratio of 49.3 per cent compared to a national average of 25.8 per cent. Atul Kothari, National Secretary of Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas also participated in the event. In the event, calls were also made for the public and government to work together to implement the Draft National Education Policy, as it would help in reviving the lost glory of the Indian higher education.
