Chandigarh (Punjab): In a landmark move that promises to reshape Punjab’s higher education landscape, the Punjab Assembly has approved the establishment of two new universities, offering a fresh wave of hope and opportunity for the state’s students. The announcement was made by Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, who presented the bills during the ongoing Assembly session.
The new universities are expected to open doors to modern education, innovation, and entrepreneurship, giving students more local options for higher studies and skill-based learning.
Education Gets a Priority in Punjab Assembly
While addressing the Assembly, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasized that education remains the top agenda of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. He proudly recalled how, for the first time in 2022, a political party in Punjab sought votes specifically on the basis of an education-focused vision.
He credited Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal for bringing education reform to the forefront of Punjab’s political dialogue. Their efforts to reach the masses and raise awareness about quality education have laid the foundation for this transformation.
According to Bains, the newly approved universities will not only expand academic opportunities but also support entrepreneurial ambitions of youth by introducing market-relevant courses and incubators for student-led ventures.
Focus on Accessibility and Inclusivity
The Education Minister revealed that the Punjab government is planning to open new government colleges in Ajnaala, Barnala, Kiratpur Sahib, and several other regions. This move will ensure that rural and semi-urban students have better access to affordable education without needing to migrate to other states or countries.
He also highlighted a significant change in trend — “For the first time, foreign students are coming to Punjab to study,” — a development that reflects growing trust in the state’s academic infrastructure.
Tackling Brain Drain and Scholarships for SC Students
Punjab has historically battled with the issue of brain drain, where talented students preferred to move abroad due to limited local opportunities. Bains addressed this concern directly, stating that the previous governments had failed to retain talent and had even discontinued scholarships for economically weaker students.
However, under the current government:
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All SC (Scheduled Caste) students are now receiving scholarships on time
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Grants to universities are being disbursed regularly
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Market-demand courses have been introduced to boost employability
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Guest faculty positions have been secured; no job losses will occur in the transition
These reforms aim to make Punjab’s education ecosystem more inclusive, career-oriented, and sustainable.
Political Reaction and Sports University Debate
The announcement was met with support and critical inquiry from the opposition. Senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa welcomed the move, noting that the approval of these two new universities brings the total number of universities in Punjab to 19, up from the previous 17.
While praising the initiative, Bajwa also reminded the ruling government of its pending promise regarding the proposed Sports University in Jalandhar. He urged the government to clarify its stance and progress on this commitment, especially since Arvind Kejriwal had made public assurances during the Jalandhar by-elections about the university’s establishment.
A Shift in Punjab’s Academic Culture
The developments signal a positive shift in Punjab’s educational policy. Instead of focusing solely on traditional academic models, the state is now:
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Promoting skill-based education
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Encouraging start-up culture in universities
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Focusing on infrastructure development in rural belts
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Ensuring equitable access to higher education
As a result, Punjab is expected to become a more attractive destination for both domestic and international students in the coming years.
Summary of Key Developments:
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Punjab Assembly passed bills for two new universities, taking total count to 19
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Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasized education as AAP’s core agenda
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New government colleges to open in Ajnaala, Barnala, Kiratpur Sahib, and more
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Foreign students now showing interest in Punjab’s universities
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Government ensuring timely scholarships and grants to universities
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No loss of jobs for guest faculty, and new market-relevant courses launched
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Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa praised the move but questioned delay in Jalandhar Sports University
