Higher Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat Inaugurates Several Development Projects at Uttarakhand Open University,

Haldwani, Nainital | October 5, 2025A development and inauguration ceremony was organized today at Uttarakhand Open University, Haldwani, with State Higher Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat gracing the occasion as the chief guest. Member of Parliament Ajay Bhatt, Minister of State-level dignitaries, and several local representatives were also present. The event was presided over by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Naveen Chandra Lohani.In his address, Dr. Rawat emphasized that the state government is giving special attention to skill-based education. He noted that the initiatives undertaken at the secondary education level have shown successful results, and similar efforts will now be expanded at the university level.The minister praised the consistent progress of the university and expressed confidence that by 2027, Uttarakhand Open University will achieve an A++ grade from NAAC. He announced that land will be allotted for study centers across all 13 districts of the state, and additional land will be provided for the university’s Dehradun study center.Dr. Rawat also announced key development initiatives, including:Construction of a transit hostel on the university campus.Making the auditorium soundproof for enhanced academic use.Considering the pay grade revision of the university registrar to ₹10,000.Inclusion of the university’s participation in Cultural Academia programs.He further stated that the government has already provided ₹116 crore in funding to the university and aims to make it the leading higher education institution in Uttarakhand. He proposed that the university should sign MoUs with departments of paramilitary forces, ex-servicemen, and civil police to facilitate higher education opportunities for their personnel. Dr. Rawat also called for a faculty exchange program among the state universities to promote academic cooperation and improve the quality of research and education.MP Ajay Bhatt, in his address, lauded the continuous progress of the university and expressed hope that the institution will soon bring national recognition to Uttarakhand through its innovative educational initiatives.Vice-Chancellor Prof. Naveen Chandra Lohani presented a detailed report on the university’s achievements and future plans, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to delivering inclusive and quality education across all sections of society.The vote of thanks was proposed by University Registrar Khemraj Bhatt.Among the dignitaries present were Minister of State Anil Dabbu, Suresh Bhatt, Shankar Koranga, Dinesh Arya, and BJP State General Secretary Tarun Bansal, along with directors, professors, officers, and staff members of the university.