President Ram Nath Kovind lauds ‘breadth of India’s higher education’

Pointing at the shortcomings in the Indian education system, President of India Ram Nath Kovind said the country has developed a network of universities and colleges, but there are still some gaps which are deterring India from attaining world-class excellence across the spectrum.

Kovind was in the city for Symbiosis International’s 15th convocation ceremony.

During his speech, Kovind reminded the audience of the rich history of the country in the field of education where he stated that students from all over Asia and even outside would come to India for taking education in Naland and Taxila universities.

“Even today, 46,144 students from 166 countries are studying in India. The breadth of Indian higher education is appreciable. However, the fact is that there are are still gaps in quality which deter the country from attaining world-class excellence,” he said.

The president further stated that the government has taken a decision to promote and support 20 institutions of higher education as ‘Institues of Eminence’ in order to reach best-in-class global standards. 

Applauding the performance of girls in the field of higher education, Kovind stated that as President of India, he has ensured he visited universities and educational institutes across the country where he interacted with students. “One of the findings after visiting the universities and educational institutes was that the girls students are exceeding boys. This is commendable and a happy sign for the society,” he said.