The Governor of Punjab, Gulab Chand Kataria, opened a two-day conference for Vice Chancellors on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 at the Raj Bhavan. In his opening speech, he spoke about the need for a balanced educational system that respects India’s cultural heritage while also providing modern skills to students.
Kataria emphasised that education should blend traditional values with technological advancements, helping students become well-rounded individuals with both cultural awareness and contemporary abilities.
Kataria praised Punjab's education system, noting its high standards and progress when compared to some other states in the country. He highlighted that the NEP 2020 offers a strong framework for improving educational outcomes and encouraged institutions to adopt policies that recognise talent, promote language inclusivity, and follow a strict selection process for teachers.
According to him, Punjab should continue to lead in education by supporting systems that celebrate individual talents, close language gaps, and promote institutional development.
The Governor focused on the importance of talent-based learning in the NEP. He explained that education should nurture each student’s strengths and abilities, allowing them to excel in areas where they show potential.
Kataria called on educational institutions to create personalised learning pathways that support the unique abilities of students, ensuring they receive the best education suited to their talents.
He also discussed the inclusion of regional languages in university courses to help students transition more smoothly from regional-language schools to higher education.
By integrating regional languages into university syllabi, Kataria said, students would be better equipped to succeed without facing language difficulties. He stressed the importance of building an inclusive academic environment that supports students of all linguistic backgrounds.
In addition, the Governor emphasised the need for quality teaching, calling for a rigorous teacher selection process based strictly on University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines.
He also called for strong measures to prevent exam paper leaks, ensuring the integrity of the education system. Kataria advocated for increased support for environmental awareness and sports, believing these areas are crucial for developing healthy future generations.
He also spoke about the ambitious targets set by the NEP 2020, which aims to be fully implemented by 2035. Achieving these goals, he said, will require a unified and collaborative effort from all involved, including government bodies, educational institutions, educators, students, parents, and the private sector.
Punjab’s Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains, also shared updates on the state’s progress in educational reforms. He pointed out improvements in infrastructure, better teacher training, and rising student achievements, all of which align with the objectives of the NEP.
Bains highlighted the need for education that focuses on research and employment opportunities, aiming for 100 percent placement targets for graduates.
Prof Ved Prakash, the former Chairman of the UGC, spoke about the internationalisation of higher education. He stressed the importance of forming global partnerships and conducting strong research to elevate Indian institutions on the global stage.
Additionally, Prof Ganesan Kannabiran, Director of the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), delivered a session on advancements in NAAC accreditation. He focused on the importance of transparency and the use of digital innovations in the accreditation process.
Dr Avichal Kapoor, Joint Secretary of the UGC, outlined the student-centred approach of the NEP 2020. He highlighted the policy’s focus on inclusivity and skill development, aiming to create a more adaptive and responsive education system that meets the needs of all students.
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