Tell us about the key responsibilities you oversee in your current role as the Deputy Director, Directorate of Higher Education for the Government of Punjab?
As the Deputy Director of Higher Education in Punjab, my responsibilities revolve around policy planning, implementation and monitoring to improve the state’s higher education system. My key duties include the following:
• Strategic planning and policy implementation – I oversee the execution of education policies in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and ensure that institutions adhere to quality benchmarks.
• Infrastructure development – Enhancing campus facilities, digital infrastructure and research centres to promote a better learning environment.
• Regulation and accreditation – Monitoring colleges and universities to ensure compliance with University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) norms.
• Rural education expansion – Promoting accessibility by setting up satellite campuses, digital classrooms and improving public transport connectivity for students from remote areas.
• Faculty recruitment and development – Addressing faculty shortages by facilitating teacher training programmes, hiring processes and skill enhancement workshops.
• Industry and research collaboration – Working closely with corporate partners, research institutions and international universities to encourage skill-based education, internships and innovation. My ultimate goal is to ensure that higher education in Punjab is inclusive, competitive and globally recognised.
How does the government plan to enhance Punjab’s higher education system to compete on a national and global scale? What steps are being taken to improve access to quality education in rural areas?
To elevate Punjab’s higher education to national and global standards, we are implementing several initiatives, including the following:
• NEP 2020 – Aligning curriculum with multi-disciplinary and flexible learning approaches.
• Encouraging research and innovation – Setting up research grants, incubators and technology transfer centres in universities to foster innovation, patents and entrepreneurship.
• International collaborations – Establishing exchange programmes with global universities to provide students with international exposure.
• Satellite campuses and digital education – Opening smaller regional centres and promoting online degree programmes.
• Scholarships and financial aid – Expanding government scholarships for economically weaker students and offering incentives to rural students.
• Improved transport and hostel facilities – Providing free/subsidised transport for students travelling from rural areas and expanding hostel accommodations near institutions.
With these initiatives, we aim to create a globally competent and inclusive education ecosystem in Punjab.
What are the biggest challenges faced by higher education institutions in Punjab, and how is the government addressing those?
Punjab’s higher education sector faces several critical challenges that hinder its growth and effectiveness. One of the major issues is funding constraints, where limited budget allocations affect infrastructure development and faculty recruitment. To address this, increasing Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding and securing research grants can help to generate additional financial resources.
Another pressing concern is the shortage of experienced faculty and the quality of teaching. Limited opportunities for professional upskilling further exacerbate this issue. To mitigate this, institutions can initiate extensive hiring drives, implement faculty exchange programmes and make Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) mandatory to ensure continuous professional growth.
The digital divide and technological gaps pose another challenge, particularly for students in rural areas who lack access to reliable internet connectivity and digital devices. Solutions to bridge this gap include expanding wi-fi-enabled smart classrooms, launching government-funded laptop distribution schemes and collaborating with EdTech companies to provide free or subsidised digital learning resources.
Lastly, the employability and industry-academia gap remains a concern, as many traditional courses do not offer practical and skill-based training. To address this, educational institutions must introduce industry-aligned vocational courses, promote internship programmes and skill-based certifications, and strengthen career counselling and placement cells to better prepare students for the workforce. By implementing these solutions, Punjab’s higher education system can overcome these challenges and provide students with a more holistic and future-ready learning experience.
The rise of digital learning and EdTech is transforming education. How is the Punjab government integrating technology into higher education?
Digital learning and EdTech are transforming education, and Punjab is actively embracing these innovations. Government colleges and universities are being equipped with smart classrooms featuring interactive whiteboards, high-speed internet and access to digital libraries. Additionally, online course platforms are being introduced in collaboration with Study Webs of Active learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM), the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and other digital learning portals to provide students with high-quality educational resources.
To further support technology-driven education, institutions are establishing virtual labs and AI-based learning tools. Virtual labs enable science, engineering and medical students to conduct experiments remotely, ensuring practical exposure even in resource-constrained settings. Meanwhile, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered learning tools are being explored to offer personalised learning experiences, catering to the unique needs of each student and improving overall engagement.
Recognising the need for faculty adaptation to modern teaching methods, faculty training in digital education is being prioritised. Digital pedagogy training programmes are being organised to equip teachers with the necessary skills to integrate technology into their teaching practices effectively. Furthermore, the adoption of Learning Management Systems (LMS) is being encouraged to streamline course management, enhance communication between students and teachers, and improve the overall learning process.
By integrating these technological advancements, Punjab’s education sector aims to bridge the digital divide, elevate the quality of education, and prepare students for a future driven by technology and innovation.
What primary steps has the government taken to address skill gaps in the education sector? Any courses introduced to prepare students to align them with the current job trends?
The Punjab government is prioritising industry-driven education to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive job market. A key initiative in this effort is the introduction of skill-based and vocational courses in emerging fields such as AI, cybersecurity, digital marketing, data science and healthcare technology. To ensure industry relevance, the government is fostering partnerships with IT companies and the manufacturing sector, enabling students to earn certifications that align with current job market demands.
Additionally, internship and apprenticeship programmes are being strengthened through collaborations with industries, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. These initiatives provide students with hands-on work experience, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings while gaining valuable industry exposure.
To further support career growth and innovation, the government is also emphasising entrepreneurship and startup development. Universities are establishing incubation centres to nurture entrepreneurial talent and drive innovation among students. Furthermore, seed funding and mentorship programmes are being introduced to help aspiring student entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful ventures.
By focussing on practical and skill-based learning, Punjab aims to prepare students not only for employment, but also to become self-sufficient contributors to the economy, fostering a workforce that is resilient, adaptable and future-ready.
What are your top priorities for the development of higher education in Punjab in the next five years?
Our key priorities for the development of higher education in Punjab in the next five years include the following:
- Expanding higher education infrastructure: Building new universities and colleges, especially in under-served areas and upgrading laboratories, libraries and research facilities.
- Strengthening research and innovation: Establishing university-industry research partnerships and increasing funding for scientific and technological research.
- Enhancing digital education and smart learning: Expanding AI-based learning models, Virtual Reality (VR)-enabled education and cloud-based classrooms.
- Increasing scholarships and financial aid: Introducing more government-funded scholarships and low-interest education loans.
- Improving faculty training and teaching standards: Implementing mandatory professional development programmes for educators and hiring qualified faculty to ensure world-class education standards.
- Focusing on sustainability and green campuses: Encouraging eco-friendly infrastructure, renewable energy sources and carbon-neutral campuses. With these strategies, Punjab’s higher education system will be more competitive, inclusive and future-ready.
dorina@thefoundermedia.com
