Universities must extend quality education to rural and underserved communities to help India achieve its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, Goa Minister Subhash Phal Dessai said at the ETEducation Chancellors’ Conclave 2026. He called for greater access to education, practical skill development and research that addresses real-world challenges.

AdvertisementThe Puranic

Delivering the Guest of Honour address, Phal Dessai said India's young population presents a significant opportunity, but this potential can only be realised when students have access to relevant education, employable skills and meaningful career opportunities.

He urged universities to reach students beyond urban centres through satellite campuses, community colleges and digital learning platforms offering courses in regional languages. Highlighting Goa's efforts to improve educational access, he referred to smart classroom initiatives in government schools and the need to bring modern learning resources to remote communities.

The minister also stressed the importance of including women and disadvantaged communities in higher education. He linked broader access to the country's ambition of increasing the gross enrolment ratio in higher education to 50% by 2035.

Phal Dessai said universities should focus on research that solves practical problems in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, water management, waste management and tribal welfare. He encouraged institutions to turn research into useful technologies, products and solutions that benefit local communities.

He also called for closer alignment between academic courses and employment opportunities in sectors including tourism, logistics, green energy and information technology. Students, particularly those from rural and tribal backgrounds, should gain practical skills and recognised certifications alongside academic qualifications.

The minister further encouraged technology and artificial intelligence companies to explore opportunities in Goa, emphasising the need to create quality employment for local graduates.

He urged university leaders to measure institutional success by the opportunities they create, the communities they support and the real-world problems they help solve.