In an effort to promote discipline and create a sense of equality among students, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel on Wednesday ordered the implementation of a compulsory uniform policy in all state universities and colleges. The announcement came during a review meeting held at Jan Bhavan regarding government and aided colleges affiliated with Jananayak Chandrashekhar University in Ballia. During the session, officials reviewed academic standards, administrative functioning, infrastructure, and student welfare measures across institutions.

According to an official statement from the Governor’s office, Anandiben Patel expressed concern over several shortcomings identified in colleges. She instructed government officials, department authorities, and university administrators to carry out regular inspections and address the deficiencies without delay. The Governor also stressed the need to improve hostel facilities in women’s colleges and ensure the safety and proper guidance of female students. She directed institutions to establish committees where both male and female students can openly discuss their concerns and receive timely solutions.

Issuing strict instructions to faculty members, Patel said teachers must uphold the dignity and values associated with the teaching profession. She asked educators to focus on students’ holistic development, maintain punctuality in classrooms, and ensure regular attendance among students. Highlighting skill development, the Governor encouraged colleges to introduce vocational and employment-oriented courses, especially for female students. She suggested programs such as beautician training, mehndi art, GST-related skills, bindi manufacturing, accountancy, and millet-based food preparation to help students become self-reliant and improve employment opportunities.

Patel also urged institutions to study and effectively implement the National Education Policy (NEP), emphasizing flexible subject choices and multidisciplinary learning. She said students should gain exposure to additional skills like yoga, painting, and other practical disciplines alongside their main academic subjects.

She further directed universities and colleges to connect students with project-based learning and technical education aligned with industry demand. Workshops and awareness programs should be organised regularly to enhance students’ practical knowledge and career readiness. For colleges with weak infrastructure, the Governor recommended adopting a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model similar to initiatives implemented in Gujarat to improve educational quality and facilities in Uttar Pradesh institutions.

The Governor additionally stressed the importance of sports activities and encouraged colleges to actively involve students in the Khelo India campaign. She also instructed institutions to make better use of academic resources available under the INFLIBNET and “One Nation One Subscription” schemes, allowing students easier access to research papers, books, and global academic material. Patel directed colleges to prepare detailed project reports under the “UP Pramanan” initiative so that infrastructure development, quality improvement, and academic upgrades can be accelerated across higher education institutions in the state.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.