Mysuru: MLA Dr. C.N. Ashwathnarayan observed that a country can become strong and self-dependent only if it concentrates on imparting quality education as the 21st century is dominated by knowledge based society.

He was speaking after inaugurating Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Belagavi, Vice-Chancellor Dr. S. Vidyashankar felicitation programme  organised jointly by Lions International Multiple District 317, Negilayogi Samaja Seva Trust and S. Vidyashankar Abhimanigala Balaga at Senate Bhavan in Manasagangothri here on Sunday.

Pointing out that technological developments will drive the country’s economic growth, Dr. Ashwathnarayan, who is also a former Deputy Chief Minister, bemoaned that now Universities too have become white elephants because of financial burden. Observing that no one is willing to extend support to overcome this, he said that he too has experienced such problems when he served as Higher Education Minister.

Maintaining that Educational Institutions are indeed the real ‘Shakti Kendras,’ he contended that they should be granted autonomy and the freedom to excel on their own.

MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, in his address, said that Dr. Vidyashankar had made great efforts to take education to the doorsteps of everyone when he served as the VC of KSOU in Mysuru earlier.

Pointing out that Dr. Vidyashankar is credited with the establishment of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar Chair in KSOU, he said that the VTU has many firsts in imparting technical education and Dr. Vidayshankar is steadfastly carrying forward this legacy.

MLC A.H. Vishwanath, in his address, lashed out at CM Siddaramaiah for rejecting the NEP-2020 introduced by the Centre.

Arguing that the NEP is aimed at transforming the education system in the country by bringing about comprehensive changes in the curriculum and related activities, he opined that the State Government has done a big mistake by rejecting the NEP as a whole.

Dr. S. Vidyashankar-Jyothi couple were felicitated. Also,  nine talented Engineering students were distributed laptops on the occasion.

Adichunchanagiri Mutt Seer Sri Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji graced the occasion.

Past Lions District Governor Ln. K. Devegowda, Lions District Chairman Ln. N. Krishnegowda, Negilayogi Samaja Seva Trust President D. Ravikumar and others were present.