With over 60 programmes at the UG, PG and research levels, and about 20 global collaborations, Bangalore-based Jain University is among the top 20 private universities in India. In this interview, Chenraj Roychand, founder chairman, the Jain Group of Institutions, and president, Jain University Trust, shares with FE?s Abhishek Chakraborty that collaborations with world?s leading universities create an impact on employability in the global markets.
What can be the impact on Indian universities following the decision to allow foreign universities to operate in India by setting up campuses and offering degrees without a local partner?
The entry of foreign universities will expose Indian education system to a global perspective of education. It will not only facilitate students aspiring for a higher degree abroad to continue their education in India and fulfil their dreams but will also allow the universities to get a better understanding of the needs and preferences of students. Further, teaching methodology will undergo a fusion of international and Indian outlook.
Then, due to collaborations with leading universities, there is an impact on employability in the global markets. This can help in extending the reach of research, knowledge and technology in various fields.
No Indian university is in the list of World?s top 200 institutions, as per QS World University rankings. What steps have you taken to address this challenge?
We aspire to actively empower rural and urban populace through education and entrepreneurship. Jain University has established 10 robust Centres of Excellence in varied streams. The Chenraj Roychand Centre for Entrepreneurship aspires to produce successful social entrepreneurs. Till date, 42 companies have been incubated.
India is the third largest education system in the world, but a high percentage of Indian institutes have medium- or low-quality education. What measures should be taken by universities to address this?
A university?s primary focus must be developing students? perception and outlook. Inclusion of courses with subsidised fees and providing scholarships to meritorious, underprivileged students aids in alleviating the shortcomings of the education system.
Do you encourage sports?
We advocate sportsmanship and assist students aspiring to be notable sportspersons by providing them academic support and scholarship. Some of our star performers include Pankaj Advani, Shikha Tandon, Robin Uthappa, Rehan Pooncha, Anup Sridhar and Gaurav Dhiman. These are live success stories of how Indian universities can play a critical role in building India?s sporting culture.
