Niti Aayog has proposed an ambitious plan to stimulate higher education growth in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) by proposing the development of 'EduCities.' These proposed educational hubs, spanning over 100 hectares, aim to integrate multiple colleges and universities into comprehensive centers of learning.
The think tank's recent report highlights Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) and the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) influence area as prime locations for these EduCities. Given Mumbai's status as a major business hub with global connections, the report envisions the MMR evolving into a leading center for higher education.
The EduCities are planned to feature top-notch faculty, research facilities, student housing, and recreational areas. Additionally, the proposal includes blue-green infrastructure to enhance urban environments by combining man-made and natural elements. Niti Aayog's report notes substantial investor interest in the MMR due to the availability of affordable land and necessary amenities.
Educationists are hopeful about MMR's potential as an educational hub. Niranjan Hiranandani, Provost of HSNC University, expressed optimism about the establishment of multiple centers with improved access and connectivity. He pointed out that Mumbai's status as the financial capital and its thriving industrial corridor between Mumbai and Pune will significantly boost educational opportunities.
The report also underscores the potential economic impact of a large educational system, including job creation. Although MMR is not currently among India's top 10 districts for the number of colleges, regions like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune have benefited greatly from their educational ecosystems, leading to extensive job growth.
With the World Economic Forum projecting a need for nearly 20 million additional digital jobs globally by 2030, Niti Aayog recommends that MMR should aim to train 10-12 lakh people by that year. The proposed courses include electronics assembly, digital skills, animation, fashion technology, supply chain management, caregiving, nursing, aviation, and hospitality. The report also emphasizes the importance of including women, aiming for at least 40% female participation.
Dr. Balasaheb Pawar, trustee of Shiva Education Trust, which manages nearly 50 colleges, highlighted the need for these new EduCities to focus on high-quality professional courses. Experts agree that while Navi Mumbai already has a strong presence of traditional undergraduate programs, the new EduCities will support the implementation of the National Education Policy, providing students with a wide range of course options within expansive campus environments.
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