AP Calls for Research-Driven Transformation of Higher Education

Andhra Pradesh has called for a transformation of higher education, urging universities and colleges to move beyond traditional teaching and become centres of research, innovation, entrepreneurship and technological advancement.

Dr H. Purushotham, Secretary of the Andhra Pradesh Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Economic Times Education Chancellors’ Conclave 2026, organised by the Goa government at Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort. Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant inaugurated the event, held under the theme ‘Leadership to Legacy: Redefining the Future of Higher Education’.

Purushotham stressed the need to connect scientific research with industrial requirements and integrate emerging technologies into higher education. He said educational institutions must play a greater role in developing practical solutions, encouraging innovation and supporting the country's technological and economic growth.

Strengthening industry-academia partnerships was essential to achieving these objectives, he said, adding that the Andhra Pradesh government, under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, was committed to fostering closer cooperation among educational institutions, industries and government departments.

He also highlighted the need to promote deep-tech startups and incorporate advanced fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing and biotechnology into academic programmes. Alongside quality teaching, institutions should provide skill-based education to improve students' employability and prepare them for changing industry requirements.

Emphasising the importance of research infrastructure, Purushotham said universities needed adequate facilities and resources to support scientific investigations and technological breakthroughs. He called for greater attention to patent development, international academic partnerships and industry collaboration to expand research capabilities and translate discoveries into practical applications.

He urged higher education institutions to adopt a forward-looking approach that prioritises meaningful research and innovation over conventional teaching methods alone. Such efforts, he said, could generate lasting benefits for society while strengthening India's technological capabilities and economic progress.

Purushotham emphasised that closer links between academia and industry, supported by modern infrastructure and emerging technologies, would help universities contribute more effectively to national development.