Indian higher education system one of the biggest in world, Razi

Ranchi, Aug 26 (UNI) Jharkhand Governor Syed Sibtey Razi has said higher education is passing through an interesting phase of development, and its expansion is amongst the highest priorities all over the world.

Delivering his inaugural speech at the conference of Vice- Chancellors of Eastern India on ''Excellence in Higher Education and Role of Universities'' at Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Mr Razi yesterday said, '' Indian higher education is one of the largest such systems in the world. '' According to the latest reports, there were 229 state and Central universities, 96 deemed universities, 13 institutions of natural importance, and more than 16,000 affiliated colleges in the country, he said.

The number of students enrolled in higher education stood close to one crore and number of teachers is over 4,57,000.

'' India is now recognised as a nation with a potential to give knowledge to strengthen both internal and as well as the world economy , '' the Governor said.

UNI PRS SJC RDMSJ RN1343