Pune: At the 6th National Convention organized by Vidyanan Bharati, Prof. Dr. Mangesh Karad, Executive President of MIT ADT University, delivered an impactful address highlighting the need for innovation in higher education. The event, featuring a panel discussion on "Science, Technology, and Innovation Education: Rollout of NEP," saw Dr. Karad advocating for significant educational reforms.

Dr. Karad underscored the importance of cultivating an innovative mindset within universities to foster a robust learning environment. He emphasized that global exchange programs are crucial for broadening students' horizons and enhancing their educational experiences.

"To keep pace with rapid technological advancements, it is imperative that we overhaul our syllabus," said Dr. Karad. He stressed the necessity of a curriculum that promotes creativity and practical problem-solving skills.

A standout achievement of MIT ADT University, highlighted by Dr. Karad, is the remarkable success of first-year students in securing nine patents. This milestone underscores the potential of young minds when nurtured with the right support. Dr. Karad also pointed to global collaborations aimed at enhancing faculty skills and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students.

Dr. Karad concluded his address by calling for a shift in the perception of education. "Good projects should not just remain academic exercises; they should be developed into market-ready products," he asserted, advocating for a practical and product-oriented approach to educational projects.

In his final remarks, Dr. Karad critiqued the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) evaluation criteria. He noted that NAAC currently prioritizes the receipt of government funds in its evaluations. "We need to recognize the efforts of universities and teachers," he stated. "Private universities can also provide funds to teachers for conducting quality research. The focus should be on the research and its outcomes rather than the source of funding."

The panel discussion concluded with a collective call to action for educators and policymakers to implement meaningful changes in the education sector, in line with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP).