Dr Dinesh Singh on evolving higher education in India to restore lost glory

Dr Dinesh Singh, Chancellor, KR Mangalam University, delivered the keynote address at India Today Education Conclave 2023 on the topic 'How Can India Produce Globally Top Ranking Universities?'

In answer to a question on why India was not considered a go-to hub for education, he identified three reasons: excessive control and regulations on education, lack of vision and continuity in university leadership, and a disconnect between academia and the needs of society.

Dr Singh highlighted the examples of Harvard and Cambridge Universities, which were able to excel because they had autonomy and the freedom to innovate. He also mentioned the importance of putting knowledge into action, citing examples of institutions like Stanford University and Imperial College of London.

He emphasised the need for India's education institutions to redefine their curriculum and pedagogy to be more transdisciplinary and problem-solving oriented. He also called for a shift in the assessment system to focus on creativity and originality, rather than rote memorisation.

Dr Singh mentioned the National Education Policy as a positive step towards granting freedom and flexibility in education, but also criticised the excessive regulations and lack of diversity in implementation.

He shared his experiences of implementing changes during his tenure as vice chancellor of the University of Delhi, which led to positive outcomes. He also highlighted the importance of undergraduate education and the need to give it more attention and investment.

Dr Dinesh Singh also discussed India's historical achievements in knowledge systems, such as navigation and surgery, and how the loss of confidence during colonial rule contributed to the decline of India's education system.

Overall, Dr Singh expressed optimism about the potential for change and improvement in India's education system through the implementation of the National Education Policy and a focus on practical, problem-solving education.