Indian varsities have vital role in strengthening ties with Asia : Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra

Indian varsities have vital role in strengthening ties with Asia

MEERUT, Uttar Pradesh, August 5, 2011 -- Indian Universities may play a vital role in strengthening relations with the Asian countries by attracting the youth in these countries in their qualitative technical programs at affordable costs. As of now, the youth in Asian countries is not aware of the programs and facilities available in India that's why India doesn't figure in their list of destinations for higher education. This was revealed by Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, the Pro-Chancellor of Shobhit University, on his return from South Korea and Mongolia, as a member of the delegations visiting these countries alongwith the President of India Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil.

Kunwar Shekhar told reporters here today that as a member representing the Indian higher education, he got opportunity to interact with the universities and officials in both the countries. In his assessment he found that the higher education in South Korea is as good as in India but it is very costly. This works as a deterrent for many a willing student. With proper representation in South Korea, Indian universities may attract South Korean students and these students may become very strong bond between the two countries.

Talking about his experience in Mongolia, Kunwar Shekhar said that the Mongolian human resources need training to bring their systems at par with the developed world. Before collapse of USSR, they had been receiving support and training from the Soviet regimes. However, now their technologies are getting obsolete and development of modern infrastructure and other economic structures is required. This objective may be fulfilled only by proper training of the human resources there. Here, too, the Indian universities may play an important role and offer to Mongolian students training and technological support needed for development of the country which is very rich in minerals and other natural resources. A stronger relationship with Mongolia may also be very helpful to India.

The Shobhit University Pro-Chancellor also said, "New and multifaceted mutually beneficial possibilities have opened up with the visit of the President to these countries. Its up to different sectors of Indian economy to explore these opportunities and consolidate those into real structures." Recalling the S. Korean economy and structures, he said that technically strong S. Korea has successfully integrated its trade, talent and training. This resulted in quick growth of their economy but now they are facing shortage of manpower. India may benefit from this situation.

Regarding Mongolia, he said that having Buddhism as their major religion, the Mongols feel close to India, however, the geographical situations have lent an edge to China in comparison to other countries. India's share in Mongolia's trade and economic relations with the world are limited to a meager 4-5 per cent.

He said that keeping in view the need for skill development in Mongolia, the Shobhit University has offered to impart training to Mongolian human resources under its International Skills Development Centre (ISDC). The university may also set up such a centre in Mongolia itself. He also told that as a token of goodwill, the Shobhit University has announced scholarships for 8 Mongolian students in different disciplines.

Kunwar Shekhar expressed hope that authorities in India as well as the Mongolia and S. Korea would soon be taking due steps to strengthen educational and economic ties spurred by the recent Presidential visit.