Mysore/Mysuru: “The State Education Policy will  focus much on skills enhancement and best use of technology,” said Prof. S.R. Niranjana, Vice-Chairman of Karnataka Higher Education Council and former Vice-Chancellor of Gulbarga University.

He was speaking after inaugurating the National Seminar on ‘New trends in Botany’ and 15th All India Conference on Cytology and Genetics organised jointly by the Department of Studies in Botany, University of Mysore (UoM) and The Society of Cytologists and Geneticists, India, at Vijnana Bhavan in Manasagangothri campus here recently.

Stating that the Karnataka Government is committed for the growth of younger generation, he said the new State Education Policy provides much opportunities for skill-based academic activities. The Policy also facilitates degree students to opt for the fourth core subject (open elective) along with the group of 3 core subjects and proceed with their studies, he said adding that the Botany Department should also give importance to learning, skill enhancement and research.

UoM Vice-Chancellor Prof. N.K. Lokanath, in his address, said that in a rapidly changing  world, technology too is advancing fast. Stressing on the need for carrying out research, he observed that research studies should increase with collaboration and co-operation with concerned institutions and research bodies. There should be changes in learning practices too, he said adding that there is a need for everyone to carry out studies and get updated regularly.

The Society of Cytologists and Genetics, India President Prof. Rakesh C. Verma, Vice-President Prof. B.H.M. Nijalingappa, Secretary Prof. M.C. Gayathri, Joint Secretary Prof. L. Rajanna, UoM Botany Department Head Prof. Rajkumar H. Garampalli and others were present on the occasion.