Swati Mujumdar appointed as Chancellor of Symbiosis Skills and Professional University

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With skill development gaining importance in today’s rapidly changing world, educational institutions should take the initiative to provide skill-based education and training to students in rural areas, Chandrakant Patil, Maharashtra’s Minister for Higher and Technical Education, said. He assured that the State government would extend the necessary infrastructure and support schemes to institutions undertaking such initiatives.

Mr. Patil was addressing a felicitation ceremony that was organised to honour Dr. Swati Mujumdar on her appointment as Chancellor of Symbiosis Skills and Professional University. Maharashtra Minister for Skill Development Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Symbiosis president Dr. S. B. Mujumdar and Sanjeevani Mujumdar attended the programme.

“Skill development has acquired tremendous importance across the world. A skilled young generation can contribute not only to its own growth but also to the development of society and the nation. Educational institutions should therefore take the lead in ensuring that skill-based education reaches students in rural areas. The government will provide the required infrastructure and incentives for such initiatives,” Mr. Patil said.

He also praised Dr. Swati Mujumdar for her contribution to skill development and training at the global level. He expressed confidence that the university would achieve greater heights under her leadership.

Mr. Lodha said the vision of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to make Maharashtra a leading State in skill development and training had been strengthened through the efforts of Symbiosis and the Mujumdar family.

Dr. S. B. Mujumdar said that although the education system introduced in India during the British era still influences the country, the changing needs of the modern economy have made skill development increasingly important. He stressed the need for both the Central and State governments to take greater initiatives to ensure that India remains a leader in skill development and vocational training.

Dr. Swati Mujumdar said the establishment of the university demonstrated how progressive political leadership and a clear vision could help achieve major goals. She acknowledged the contribution of former Education Minister Vinod Tawde and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis towards the establishment of the university.

She said the university designs its programmes by taking into account the manpower requirements of industries. Industry representatives are involved in curriculum development along with professors and education experts. The university has entered into collaborations with more than 200 leading industries, providing students with industry-oriented training and opportunities to build successful careers.

To take skill training to students at the grassroots level, the university has introduced diploma programmes in which around 90% of participants are women. Dr. Mujumdar said that nearly 25% of the students who completed the training have gone on to start their own businesses.

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