Hyderabad: The vital role of higher education institutions in steering India towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 was the central theme as St Francis College for Women inaugurated its two-day national seminar, sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR).
Prof. J. Mathew George, director, St Mary's Educational Society, with a data-driven presentation, spoke about the importance of making education and healthcare affordable and available to all. He sought a reorientation of policy measures to support inclusive growth and development.
Principal Dr Uma Joseph highlighted the indispensable role of education in fostering social progress, sustainability, and good governance, stressing that students have a critical part to play in achieving a developed India by 2047.
Keynote speaker Dr C. Ganesh from department of sociology, Osmania University, delved into the sociological aspects of development, advocating for a holistic approach that integrated social and cultural progress with economic growth. He emphasised that technological and economic advancements alone were not sufficient to achieve Viksit Bharat, societal upliftment and environmental sustainability are equally crucial.
The seminar, which features paper presentations from students, researchers, and academics, will explore topics such as skill enhancement, national security, and the integration of digitalisation for e-governance, reinforcing the pivotal role of higher education in national development.
