SHAHJAHANPUR, November 3: U P Governor Anandiben Patel on Tuesday called for greater transparency in academic and administrative functioning, improved educational standards and institutional self-reliance during her visit to Swami Shukdevanand University in Shahjahanpur.

Reviewing the university’s functioning, the Governor emphasised the need for a clearly defined development roadmap, timely administrative processes and a transparent examination system. She said the institution should strive to emerge as a self-reliant and model university, supported by quality education, adequate infrastructure and effective governance.

During a review meeting with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Pushpendra Bahadur Singh and senior university officials, Patel stressed that students’ academic performance should be assessed transparently and their examination shortcomings brought to their attention. She also called for special academic support for weaker students and regular interaction with their parents.

The Governor inaugurated the university’s reading room and highly confidential examination room. During an inspection of the library, she examined its collection of rare manuscripts and directed the authorities to ensure their proper preservation. She also stressed the digitisation of library resources and the expansion of access to e-books, e-journals and computer facilities.

Interacting with students during her visit to the science laboratories, Patel encouraged them to explore emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and space technology. She called for upgrading laboratory facilities to promote practical learning and research, while suggesting that individual departments develop their own libraries.

Addressing students at a cultural programme, the Governor underscored the importance of translating classroom learning into practical knowledge. She said educational institutions must equip students with the skills and capabilities required to meet emerging challenges.

Emphasising the need for a drug-free society, she urged teachers and students to actively participate in anti-drug campaigns. She also encouraged young researchers to pursue scientific exploration, including research in space and marine sciences.

The Governor directed the university to maintain a minimum attendance of 75 per cent among students and begin preparations for National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation without delay. She also called for continuous improvement in academic standards and greater emphasis on employment-oriented education and self-reliance.

Appreciating the comparatively higher attendance of girl students, Patel said their dedication and academic efforts were encouraging. She urged all students to develop the resilience to face difficult circumstances and contribute towards making Uttar Pradesh an ‘Uttam Pradesh’.

Additional Chief Secretary Sudhir M. Bobde also urged students to equip themselves with emerging technological skills, particularly in artificial intelligence, amid rapid digitalisation.

During the programme, three books were released Marketing Research co-authored by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Pushpendra Bahadur Singh and Dr. Pravendra Dixit; Dr. J. S. Ojha; and New Criminal Law Regime and Human Rights in India co-authored by Dr. J. S. Ojha, Dr. Anil Kumar and Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh.

As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the Governor planted a sapling on the university campus in the presence of District Magistrate Dharmendra Pratap Singh, the Vice-Chancellor and NCC cadets.

She later met former Union Minister of State for Home Swami Chinmayanand Saraswati before concluding her visit.