The Department of Economics Central University of Orissa at Sunabeda organized a seminar lecture on “Higher Education in India: Problems and Prospects” on last week.
Professor of Economics, Dr. Sudhakar Panda (Former chairman of Odisha Finance Commission & Retired Professor from Utkal University) delivered his lecture at the seminar. While prof. Sachidananda Mohanty, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of CUO delivered the inaugural address.
Prof. Mohanty in his extensive lecture referred to the rich ethical values of the past and thereby, pressed for the growing significance of moral education. He pointed out the loopholes of the education system in India, where the stake holders are not taking collective responsibility. But he noted an air of optimism towards the end of the seminar.
Prof Sudhakar Panda highlighted the presence of several problems, which included the hindrances of equity, quality and accessibility, in higher education in the country. He said, “Despite the mushrooming higher educational institutes in the country, we are very far from reaching actual quality, equity and accessibility for all. Rather than focusing on quantity of educational institutions, the government must focus on maintaining quality of education in the country”.
He also pointed out to improve the quality of higher education in the country. The lecture was followed by a brain storming discussion session among the students and faculties with Prof. Panda.
The Head of Department of Economics, Prasant Kumar Behera coordinated the programme while his colleagues and several students assisted him in making this programme successful. Students from other disciplines of the university participated in the programme and were greatly benefited.