By Tajdar H. Zaidi | Lucknow
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has called for sweeping reforms in the state’s education system, placing a strong emphasis on research-driven learning and a stricter attendance policy for students across schools, colleges, and universities.
Speaking at the 44th Convocation of Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, held at the Baba Gambhirnath Auditorium, Patel underscored that a minimum of 75% attendance should be made compulsory for all students.
The Governor, who also serves as the Chancellor of all state universities, emphasized that classroom participation, laboratory practice, and active engagement with libraries are crucial components of quality education.
According to her, ensuring students are present for at least three-quarters of their academic schedule would not only strengthen their academic performance but also instill discipline and responsibility.
Why 75% Attendance is Essential
Patel stressed that many parents sacrifice heavily to provide their children with quality education, yet some students take this privilege for granted. A 75% attendance requirement, she said, would:
- Enhance Learning Outcomes: Consistent presence in classrooms helps students stay connected with the curriculum, minimizes gaps in understanding, and reduces the pressure of last-minute exam preparation.
- Promote Discipline: Attendance rules cultivate a sense of punctuality and responsibility, qualities that are vital for future professional success.
- Encourage Holistic Development: Beyond textbook learning, regular attendance exposes students to extracurricular activities, group discussions, seminars, and practical training—all essential for personality development.
- Maximize Institutional Resources: Universities and schools invest heavily in libraries, laboratories, and research facilities. Ensuring students are present to utilize these resources validates these investments and promotes intellectual growth.
- Reduce Dropout Rates: Studies show that irregular attendance often correlates with disinterest in academics, which eventually leads to higher dropout rates. Mandatory attendance policies can counter this trend.
“Parents work hard to educate their children. It is the moral duty of students to make the most of these opportunities by showing up regularly for lectures, workshops, and lab sessions,” Patel emphasized.
Focus on Research and Social Relevance
While advocating stricter attendance norms, the Governor also stressed the importance of research-based learning. She urged universities to design projects that address pressing social issues and to forward their findings to policymakers for actionable change.
“The government provides research grants. This should not remain confined to academic journals but should translate into solutions for society,” she said.
Patel’s address encouraged universities to collaborate with international institutions and accelerate the exchange of knowledge. She suggested sending students to neighboring countries to study their education systems and implement best practices back home.
Boosting Global Recognition
The Governor also highlighted the role of NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council), NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework), and international ranking systems in attracting foreign students.
With an increase in international enrollments already visible in some state universities, Patel urged institutions to treat foreign students with warmth and hospitality, calling it “a reflection of India’s culture and values.”
She stressed that improving rankings and global partnerships will not only enhance India’s educational standing but also give students exposure to diverse academic environments.
A Step Towards Educational Excellence
Education experts largely support Patel’s recommendation, noting that attendance policies are common in premier institutions worldwide.
For instance, countries like Japan and South Korea—renowned for their strong education systems—implement strict attendance requirements, and this has been a major factor behind their academic success.
Introducing a similar standard in Indian universities could raise the bar for discipline and performance. With India’s focus on becoming a global knowledge hub through initiatives like NEP 2020 (National Education Policy), mandatory attendance could serve as an important foundational reform.
Governor Anandiben Patel’s bold call for 75% mandatory attendance is more than a bureaucratic directive; it is a vision for a more disciplined, academically rigorous, and globally competitive education system.
By emphasizing attendance, research, and international collaboration, Patel has outlined a roadmap for nurturing students who are not only academically sound but also socially responsible and globally aware.
In a world increasingly defined by competition, knowledge, and innovation, this step could be pivotal in shaping India’s next generation of leaders, researchers, and professionals.
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