Sridhar Babu Calls for Job-Oriented Higher Education, Urges Stronger Academia-Industry Connect

Telangana IT and Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu has called for a stronger connection between higher education and industry requirements, stressing that students should graduate with both academic qualifications and practical skills. Speaking at the REACH-2026 (Research, Education and Advancement) conclave organised by the Telangana Council of Higher Education at JNTUH in Kukatpally, he said the education system should prepare students to address real-world challenges and become employment-ready by the time they complete their courses. The conclave brought together representatives from universities, research institutions, industry and government to strengthen collaboration in higher education, research and innovation.

Sridhar Babu suggested setting up incubation centres in universities to help students and researchers convert ideas into startups and innovative products. He also called for greater industry participation in curriculum design, laboratories, internships, live projects and research. Highlighting the state’s efforts to develop advanced technology centres and strengthen skill-based education, he said the new standard should be “a degree in one hand and a skill in the other.” Discussions at REACH-2026 focused on globalising higher education, strengthening research capabilities, promoting innovation and creating stronger university-industry partnerships.