Industrialists to bet on young ideas

Local industrialists will now play a pivotal role in enhancing the academic ecosystem at Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, by contributing not only to research, skill development, startups, and cultural enrichment, but also by offering financial support to economically weaker students through fellowships and scholarships. Decisions in this regard were made during an industry-academia meet held here on Tuesday with the objective of making education more employment-oriented, innovative, and socially relevant.

During the meeting, industrialists expressed interest in adopting university laboratories to strengthen ongoing research work, and in supporting student clubs financially to promote extra-curricular activities for the holistic development of students.

“In a significant move to institutionalise industry-academic collaboration, it was decided to establish an industrial relations cell at MDU, and a corresponding university relations cell within the industrial area, ensuring smooth coordination and long-term partnerships between the sectors. Additionally, a ‘University-Industry Day’ will be celebrated every year, providing a dedicated platform to showcase joint achievements, innovations, and foster deeper partnerships,” said MDU Vice-Chancellor Rajbir Singh. “We have also decided to design special courses aimed at capacity building for those already working in the industrial sector. All participants in the meet collectively resolved to work towards making Rohtak a clean and model city, inspired by the example of Indore, as part of MDU’s golden jubilee celebrations,” the VC added.

Rajesh Jain, managing director of LPS Bossard, said the partnership would give a new identity to Rohtak.

“We will cooperate with MDU in every possible way to promote education and cleanliness. Real change will be possible only when the young generation will move forward in employment and social responsibility,” he added. Industrialists associated with steel, textile, health, technology, entertainment and service sectors were present at the meeting. They shared their experiences, and highlighted the changing needs of industries. The participants said the need of the hour was to equip the future generations with skills, innovation and practical knowledge — not just degrees.