Hyderabad: MLC Prof M Kodandaram on Sunday accused the KCR government of neglecting higher education in Telangana. He claimed that the government has prioritized private universities over public institutions, causing harm to government colleges and universities.
The Telangana Development Forum (TDF) organized a conference titled ‘Reimagining Higher Education in Telangana’ at the State Central Library in Hyderabad on Sunday. The event was inaugurated by Prof Kodandaram. Other notable speakers included Dr Riyaz, Chairman of the State Grandhalaya Samstha, and A Narsi Reddy, MLC (Teachers). They discussed various issues affecting higher education in the state.
During the conference, both Kodandaram and MLC Narsi Reddy heavily criticized the government’s actions. They argued that the focus on promoting private universities was damaging the quality of education in government institutions. The two leaders also praised the Telangana Development Forum for organizing the conference and encouraging discussions on improving education, irrigation, and healthcare in the state.
TDF founder member Dr Gopal Reddy Gade (from the US) provided an overview of the forum’s activities since 1999. He assured that the organization would continue its efforts to improve the state. Additionally, TDF-India chairman MV Gona Reddy and president Rajeshwar announced the launch of a new initiative called ‘Science Lab on Wheels.’ This project aims to help students from government schools by bringing science education to them.
Several stakeholders attended the conference, including professors, education experts, and leaders from teachers’ unions and NGOs. They shared their views and provided suggestions on how to improve the higher education system in Telangana. The attendees emphasized the importance of reducing private sector control over higher education, strengthening public institutions, improving the recruitment process, and increasing the education budget.
The conference saw participation from notable teachers’ union leaders such as G Venkat Reddy, Dr Pichaiah, Katti Venkata Swamy, Srinivasa Chary, Meeugu Bhasker Reddy, Prof Laxman Rao, Dr Narsing, Dr Narsimha, DP Reddy, and Randheer Reddy. They all contributed to the discussions with their valuable insights.