Haryana CM Urges Universities to Focus on Skill Development, Allocates ₹20 Crore for Research

Plan to Establish Model Skill Colleges and Schools in Every District; NAAC Accreditation, NEP 2020 Implementation Also Stressed

Chandigarh, June 23 – In a significant move to align higher education with employability and national development goals, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has urged newly appointed vice-chancellors of state universities to emphasize skill development programs in collaboration with industry partners. Chairing a high-level meeting at Sant Kabir Kutir with the heads of various universities, CM Saini called for bridging the gap between education and employment.

He directed every university to run at least 10% of their programs in partnership with industries to ensure students gain practical skills aligned with market demands. Highlighting the state’s vision, he announced that the government is planning to establish one model skill college and one model skill school in every district to enhance youth employability and create a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of modern industries.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s support, stating that Haryana must not only be a state that awards degrees but also one that offers purpose, direction, and employability to its youth.

To promote research, CM Saini announced a ₹20 crore allocation under the newly established Haryana State Research Fund (HSRF). He encouraged universities to utilize the fund specifically for research focused on rural social challenges and development issues. “This fund must be used strategically to encourage impactful studies that contribute directly to the growth and welfare of Haryana’s rural communities,” he stated.

He emphasized that students must be prepared not only academically but also morally and socially for the future, and that universities must adopt value-based education as a core component of their curriculum.

During the meeting, CM Saini also called for swift implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, describing it as a historic blueprint for holistic education. He encouraged institutions to align their strategies with NEP goals to help realize the vision of “Viksit Bharat, Viksit Haryana.”

He further asked all universities and affiliated colleges to obtain NAAC accreditation and prioritize faculty development, comprehensive student mentorship, and active engagement in social projects. Efforts must also be made to improve research output, institutional rankings, and the overall quality of education, he said.

Addressing the vice-chancellors, CM Saini emphasized ethical leadership and a non-discriminatory approach in academia to foster inclusive institutional cultures. He also encouraged universities to aspire for global recognition by maintaining the highest academic standards.

Those present included Dr. Raj Nehru (CM’s OSD), and vice-chancellors of BR Ambedkar National Law University, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Indira Gandhi University, Gurugram University, CRSU Jind, Dada Lakhmichand State Performing & Visual Arts University, and Vishwakarma Skill University.