JNU VC Discusses Academic Initiatives and StartUp Collaborations with Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

New Delhi:  Prof Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Vice Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), met with Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, to deliberate on collaborative ventures, academic projects, and advancements at the university. The meeting, held on January 10, 2024, also involved discussions on potential areas of research in Plant Genomics and Life Sciences.

Accompanied by Prof Satish Chandra Garkoti (Rector), Prof Supriya Chakraborty, Dean School of Life Sciences, and other senior faculty members, Prof Pandit apprised Dr Jitendra Singh of the recent progress at JNU under her leadership. Topics covered included campus infrastructure development, the university’s role in job creation, and advancements in academic pursuits.

The delegation shed light on ongoing societal development projects supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) through the ‘Boost to University Interdisciplinary Life Science Departments for Education and Research’ (DBT-BUILDER) program. Additionally, they highlighted the state-of-the-art instruments available at the Advanced Instrumentation Research Facility (AIRF), contributing to interdisciplinary research applications.

Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized the importance of an integrated approach among academia, StartUps, and industry. He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in establishing an ecosystem for India to emerge as a knowledge-based economy. India’s strides in innovation and technology were lauded, positioning the country as a global leader in scientific and technological prowess.

Discussing the potential for StartUps in aroma mission and agriculture, Dr Jitendra Singh suggested leveraging DBT’s BIRAC PPP model. Emphasizing a ‘Whole of Science’ approach, he highlighted the Department of Science & Technology’s efforts in infrastructure development and job creation.

Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) and the new National Education Policy (NEP-2020) as catalysts for the StartUp ecosystem, opening new avenues for students and youth in India. Prof Pandit highlighted JNU’s implementation of NEP 2020 in its M.Sc program and the success of the B. Tech (Computer Science) program.

The Vice Chancellor also sought attention for JNU to be granted the status of an Institution of Eminence, emphasizing the university’s commitment to new learning avenues and employment generation for the youth.