DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

In a significant push to enhance the higher education landscape in Punjab, Higher Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains today directed officials to expedite the processing of proposals from private colleges seeking university status. The move aims to streamline the upgradation process, reinforce academic excellence, and expand access to quality higher education in the state.

To ensure effective coordination and real-time monitoring, the Education Minister designated Director Higher Education, Mr. Girish Dayalan, as the Nodal Officer for overseeing the progress of all such proposals.

Chairing a high-level meeting with chairpersons and directors of leading private colleges, the Minister reiterated the Punjab Government's commitment under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to reform and revitalize the education sector through efficient, transparent, and merit-driven processes.

"This initiative reflects our resolve to provide Punjab's youth with increased access to quality education and better employment prospects. We are committed to removing unnecessary delays and creating a robust ecosystem for higher learning and make Punjab Education hub for India," said S. Harjot Singh Bains.

Officials have been instructed to conduct a merit-based review of pending applications and to accelerate decision-making processes, with a focus on transparency, fairness, and efficiency. The government also aims to harness the capabilities of the private sector to complement public initiatives and catalyse academic growth across the state.

The meeting witnessed participation from representatives of 18 private institutions, including CGC Group Mohali, Rayat Bahra Hoshiarpur, Sri Sukhmani Group Dera Bassi, Babe Ke Group Daudhar (Moga), Sher-E-Punjab University Lalru, JIS Group Ludhiana, and Baba Farid Group Bathinda, among others. Stakeholder feedback and concerns were actively noted, with the Minister assuring responsive and facilitative governance in the days ahead.

(editor@dailyworld.in)