Higher Education in India: Bridging the Gap

More than 20,000 students and parents participated in Open Day 2026 organised by JSS Science and Technology University (JSSSTU) at its SJCE campus in Mysuru on Saturday. The fourth edition of the annual programme provided aspiring students and their parents an opportunity to explore higher education options in engineering, science, technology, architecture, management and computer applications. This event aimed to bridge the gap between school education and professional higher education through direct interaction and experiential learning, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020.

The Importance of Direct Interaction

The programme began with floral tributes to the statue of Jagadguru Shivarathri Rajendra Mahaswami. C. G. Betsurmath, Executive Secretary of JSS Mahavidyapeetha, inaugurated the event. Nagamma M.P., Deputy Director of Pre-University Education, Mysuru, attended as the guest of honour. Vice-Chancellor A. N. Santosh Kumar, along with university officials, faculty members and students, were present. Departments across the university showcased research projects, innovative prototypes, laboratory demonstrations, student achievements, industry collaborations and start-up initiatives, highlighting the practical applications of the Right to Education Act 2009.

• ▸The event featured interactive exhibits, scientific models, technology demonstrations and engagement activities designed to foster scientific temper, innovation and problem-solving.
• ▸Visitors interacted with faculty members, researchers and students to gain insights into academic programmes, internships, placements, entrepreneurship opportunities and research prospects.
• ▸The campus showcased its commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through various initiatives and projects.

Adopting Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Vice-Chancellor of BLDE Deemed University, Vijayapura, Arun C. Inamadar has said that adopting artificial intelligence and machine learning in health sciences had become a necessity more particularly for the students now. Delivering convocation address at the fourth annual convocation of Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University in Dharwad on Saturday, Mr. Arun called on the graduates to work sincerely with commitment, and it would help them in achieving the milestones automatically. This emphasis on technology integration reflects the broader goals of the Digital India Initiative.

The Role of Universities in Fostering Innovation

The Indian Institute of Technology-Roorkee on Friday (June 5, 2026) said candidates who do not currently meet the minimum Class 12 marks requirement for admission can still participate in the ongoing counselling process and will be allotted seats based on their JEE rank. IIT-Roorkee, which conducted the national engineering entrance exam this year, said students with less than 75% marks for general/OBC-NCL/GEN-EWS categories or less than 65% marks for SC/ST/ categories can participate, underscoring the importance of merit-based admissions as outlined in the Indian Institutes of Technology Act 1961.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the events and initiatives highlighted demonstrate the evolving landscape of higher education in India, with a focus on experiential learning, technological integration, and merit-based admissions. These developments are crucial for bridging the gap between school education and professional higher education, ultimately contributing to the nation's human resource development as envisioned by the National Policy on Education 1986.