Akhilesh Chandra Saxena
Bareilly: Rohilkhand University has made remarkable strides over the past year, securing prestigious national and international rankings. The university achieved an A++ grade in NAAC accreditation and earned the status of a UGC Category 1 university. It was also featured in rankings such as NIRF, QS World Rankings, Times Higher Education Rankings, and India Today Rankings. These accomplishments have significantly enhanced the university’s reputation and established its presence on both national and international platforms, according to Vice-Chancellor Prof. K.P. Singh in an exclusive interview with The Lucknow Tribune.
Major Achievements in 2024
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted several key achievements of the past year:
- The university received a ₹100 crore grant under the PM-USHA scheme, which will be utilized to launch various digital learning programs. These include courses leveraging Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, and virtual labs, offering students high-quality learning experiences.
- A total of 187 research scholars were awarded Ph.D. degrees, while 725 new research candidates were enrolled in various disciplines.
- Numerous research grants were secured by faculty and scholars from national and international agencies, with additional funding provided by the university itself.
- The institution has begun initiatives like a Digital Learning Hub, an International Transit Hostel, and a pilot incubation facility, aimed at advancing the learning environment.
Expanding Global Presence
In 2024, the university admitted 71 international students from four different countries, marking a significant milestone in its global outreach. Additionally, five international faculty members are currently part of the university’s teaching staff, contributing to its academic diversity.
Research, Innovation, and Digital Transformation
The university is transitioning towards a fully digital operational model through a comprehensive support portal. It has also fully adopted the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring its teaching and administrative processes align with the latest educational standards. Last year, dual M.Tech. and Ph.D. programs, as well as diploma and certificate courses in engineering, law, and multilingual studies, were introduced to enhance academic offerings.
Social Responsibility and Inclusivity
Rohilkhand University continues to uphold its social responsibilities through initiatives like the Disha Vidyalaya, which caters to differently-abled students. Plans are underway to expand this school from KG to postgraduate levels. The university’s health center, equipped with digital X-ray machines, oxygen-supported beds, and ambulances, is managed by B. Pharma students under an experiential learning program.
Boosting Employment and Industry Collaboration
Efforts are being made to align academic curricula with industry requirements to maximize student placements. The university is enhancing its laboratories and collaborating with nearby industries that offer advanced facilities, enabling students to gain practical exposure.
Excellence in Sports and Cultural Activities
Students have brought laurels to the university by excelling in various sports such as badminton, netball, shooting, judo, and athletics at national and international levels. Additionally, they have participated in debates, rangoli competitions, and other cultural activities, earning accolades for the university.
Future Prospects
The university plans to implement a comprehensive approach to managing its affiliated colleges, which currently include 372 in Moradabad and 242 in Bareilly. With its focus on innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence, Rohilkhand University is poised to continue its growth trajectory, making a significant impact on the higher education landscape.
