In a landmark development for Assam’s higher-education landscape, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid the foundation stone for the state’s first dedicated technical and vocational education university — Swahid Kanaklata Barua State University. The ceremony took place at Bholaguri in Gohpur, located in the Biswanath district, marking a significant step toward transforming skill-based and industry-aligned education in the region.
A Major Infrastructure Milestone
The upcoming university is designed as a modern, multidisciplinary centre for technical training, vocational programmes, applied sciences, and skill-oriented courses. Key project details include:
- Total project cost: Approximately ₹415 crore
- Campus area: 241 acres
- Built-up area: Nearly 7 lakh sq. ft.
With such a vast campus, the university is expected to host advanced laboratories, skill centres, applied research hubs, modern classrooms, industry-collaboration zones, smart digital infrastructure, and residential facilities.
A University Named in Honour of a Brave Freedom Fighter
The institution is named after Swahid Kanaklata Barua, one of Assam’s most iconic freedom fighters known for her courage during the Quit India Movement. The naming serves as a tribute to her legacy and aims to inspire generations of youth pursuing education at this institution.
A Boost to Technical and Skill-Based Education in Assam
The university will focus on:
- Technical and vocational degree programmes
- Industry-led skill development
- Advanced vocational training for emerging sectors
- Partnerships with MSMEs and major industries
- Research in applied sciences and technology
- Entrepreneurship and startup incubation
It aims to bridge the skill gap in sectors such as engineering, manufacturing, IT, healthcare, tourism, agriculture technology, and renewable energy.
Impact on the Region and the State
1. Empowering Youth with Job-Ready Skills: The university will create a pipeline of skilled, employable professionals who meet both local and national industry needs.
2. Strengthening Assam’s Position in the Northeast: It will become a central hub for vocational and technical excellence in the region, attracting students from neighbouring states as well.
3. Boosting Local Development: Large-scale infrastructure development on the 241-acre campus will generate employment, support local businesses, and enhance socio-economic growth in the Gohpur–Biswanath area.
4. Promoting Industry-Academia Collaboration: Assam can position itself as a strong contributor to India’s skilled workforce, especially under national missions like Skill India, Digital India, and Make in India.
Conclusion
The foundation stone laying of Swahid Kanaklata Barua State University marks a historic moment for Assam’s educational evolution. With a massive investment of ₹415 crore, a 241-acre campus, and a vision centred on technical and vocational excellence, the university is set to become a transformative institution for the state and the entire Northeast.
FAQs
1. Who laid the foundation stone for Swahid Kanaklata Barua State University?
Ans: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid the foundation stone for the university at Bholaguri in Gohpur, Biswanath district.
2. What is special about this university?
Ans: It is Assam’s first university dedicated solely to technical and vocational education, designed to boost skill development and industry-oriented learning.
3. Where is the new university located?
Ans: The university is coming up at Bholaguri in Gohpur, located in the Biswanath district of Assam.
4. What is the total project cost?
Ans: The project is estimated to cost around ₹415 crore.
5. How large is the university campus?
Ans: The campus will span 241 acres, with a built-up area of approximately 7 lakh sq. ft.
6. Why is the university named Swahid Kanaklata Barua?
Ans: It is named in honour of Kanaklata Barua, a young Assamese freedom fighter who sacrificed her life during the Quit India Movement.
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