A New Chapter in Higher Education Begins at RRU
Newz Daddy Educational Updates
Synopsis of the Article
A two-day Roundtable Conference was held at Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Gujarat on April 8–9, 2025.
The event was jointly organized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and RRU.
Theme: Transforming Higher Education: Innovations, Collaborations and Strategies for a Future-Ready India.
Attended by Vice-Chancellors from over 20 prestigious Indian universities.
Key speakers included Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel (VC, RRU), Dr. Pankaj Mittal (Secretary General, AIU), and Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak (President, AIU).
Sessions emphasized leadership, innovation, digital integration, mental health, entrepreneurship, and Indian Knowledge Systems.
Prof. Patel called for purposeful leadership aligned with national goals.
Prof. Pathak promoted digital tools like SAMARTH and faceless student support.
Technical sessions highlighted mental health, value-based education, and governance.
Prof. Piyush Kumar Sinha introduced the KASH model for entrepreneurial culture.
Shri Narottam Sahoo spoke about AI and digital transformation in education.
The event ended with gratitude by Dr. Amrendra Pani, Joint Director (AIU), recognizing collaborative efforts.
In a powerful move to shape the future of Indian higher education, Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), in collaboration with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), hosted a special two-day roundtable for newly appointed Vice-Chancellors from across India. Held on April 8 and 9, 2025, the event focused on transforming universities through innovation, collaboration, and strategic thinking.
The event, titled “Transforming Higher Education: Innovations, Collaborations, and Strategies for a Future-Ready India,” was attended by Vice-Chancellors of more than 20 well-known universities. The atmosphere was filled with energy, ideas, and a shared commitment to building better educational institutions for tomorrow.
The conference began with a warm welcome from Prof. (Dr.) Kalpesh H. Wandra, Pro Vice-Chancellor of RRU. He stressed how Vice-Chancellors can be powerful changemakers, capable of leading India’s universities into a stronger future.
Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice-Chancellor of RRU, delivered an inspiring inaugural address. He spoke about bold leadership, long-term vision, and linking education with national development. Drawing from his experience at the United Nations Law Commission, Prof. Patel encouraged Vice-Chancellors to become purposeful leaders who bring meaningful change.
Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of AIU, spoke about AIU’s role in helping universities grow through policy advocacy, global collaborations, and support initiatives. She also talked about important topics such as teacher training, student mental health, and international partnerships.
The roundtable was further enriched by Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President of AIU and an experienced academic leader. He urged Vice-Chancellors to create customized strategies based on their unique institutional needs. Prof. Pathak emphasized the importance of using digital tools like the SAMARTH platform and “faceless student support” models, which make student services faster and easier. He reminded everyone, “Every solution lies within.”
The roundtable featured several technical sessions led by respected educators. Prof. Rajan Welukar focused on student well-being and the importance of emotional and mental health support on campuses. He called for value-based education that nurtures the whole individual.
Prof. Rajan Saxena, Former VC of NMIMS, shared insights into university governance, while Dr. Sanjeet Singh from Marwadi University emphasized quality assurance in academics. Prof. ADN Bajpai from Atal Bihari Vajpayee Vishwavidyalaya highlighted how India’s traditional knowledge systems can be integrated with modern education.
Day 2 began with the felicitation of Prof. Piyush Kumar Sinha, Director at CRI Advisory & Research. In his session, he introduced the KASH model—Knowledge, Attitude, Skill, and Habit—as a foundation for creating entrepreneurial environments within universities. He encouraged academic leaders to set up tailor-made incubation programs for students.
Shri Narottam Sahoo, Advisor at GUJCOST, discussed the rising role of artificial intelligence and digital tools in academic excellence. He pointed out how institutions need to invest in strong digital infrastructure, industry-academia partnerships, and continuous faculty training.
The final session, led once again by Prof. Bimal Patel, summed up the entire roundtable with a strong message—“One Nation, One Mission.” He emphasized the need for universities to align with India’s larger goals and to become agile, transparent, and visionary in their leadership.
The event ended with heartfelt thanks from Dr. Amrendra Pani, Joint Director (Research), AIU. He appreciated all speakers, participants, and especially the RRU team for organizing the event so smoothly.
This successful roundtable has set the stage for a new era in Indian higher education—one that is inclusive, innovative, and ready for the future.
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