Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has directed key reforms to further strengthen the quality of higher education in the state during a review meeting of the Higher Education Department. He emphasized the need for continuous improvement in academic standards and announced steps toward establishing a state-level accreditation body on the lines of NAAC.
Proposal for State Assessment and Accreditation Council (SAC)
The Chief Minister instructed officials to work towards forming a State Assessment and Accreditation Council (SAC), similar to the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
He said that a strong evaluation system is essential to ensure continuous improvement in the quality of higher education institutions across Madhya Pradesh.
Focus on Quality Improvement in PM SHRI Colleges
Dr. Yadav stressed the need to enhance the academic quality of PM SHRI colleges in the state. He reiterated that providing modern, skill-based, and employment-oriented education remains a top priority of the government.
The aim is to prepare students for future challenges and improve their employability.
Boost to Agricultural Education
The Chief Minister appreciated efforts to promote agricultural courses, noting that more than 20,000 students have enrolled in agriculture-related programs, which he called a significant achievement.
He said agricultural education is opening new avenues for innovation, research, and employment for youth in the state.
New Colleges in Urban Areas and Shift-Based Study System
Highlighting the need to expand higher education infrastructure, the Chief Minister directed the establishment of new colleges in rapidly growing urban areas.
He also suggested implementing a shift-based system in overcrowded colleges to ensure better academic facilities and access for students.
Emphasis on Skill-Based and Vocational Education
Dr. Yadav emphasized prioritizing employment-oriented and vocational courses in higher education institutions.
He instructed that adequate resources and infrastructure be provided for vocational training to enhance job and self-employment opportunities for students.
Strengthening Student Career Counselling
The Chief Minister directed the development of a structured career counselling system for Class 12 pass students, helping them choose higher education streams based on their interests and abilities.
This initiative aims to guide students toward better academic and career decisions.
Use of Sandipani School Buildings for Colleges
Dr. Yadav suggested that Sandipani School buildings may also be used for running colleges wherever necessary. This will help expand access to higher education and optimize existing infrastructure.
New Courses at Raja Shankar Shah University
The Chief Minister directed the inclusion of new and demand-driven courses at Raja Shankar Shah University in Chhindwara, including:
- Food Processing
- Architecture
- Agricultural Sciences
He assured that the state government would provide necessary financial support for these academic expansions.
Expansion of Digital Education Initiatives
Madhya Pradesh has already set up digital studios at divisional headquarters to support online learning through the ‘e-Gyan Setu’ channel.
More than 1,490 e-content modules have been developed in Hindi as well as regional languages such as Bundeli, Bagheli, and Malvi, making education more accessible in local dialects.
AVGC Labs to Boost Creative Industry Skills
The state is also establishing Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) labs in eight colleges.
These modern labs will help students develop skills in:
- Animation
- Visual effects
- Gaming
- Comics and creative media
The initiative aims to open new career opportunities in India’s fast-growing digital entertainment and creative industries.
Towards a Self-Reliant Higher Education System
The Chief Minister stated that these reforms are part of Madhya Pradesh’s vision to build a quality-driven, technology-enabled, and employment-oriented higher education system.
He said the state is committed to empowering students with modern skills and ensuring that Madhya Pradesh emerges as a leading hub for higher education in India.
