Haryana Launches Model Sanskriti Colleges to Drive $1 Trillion Vision

Haryana has embarked on an ambitious initiative to transform its higher education landscape through the establishment of Model Sanskriti Colleges (MSCs) in every district. This initiative, championed by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, aims to create institutions that not only focus on academic excellence but also foster innovation, employability, and entrepreneurship. By aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, these colleges are poised to play a pivotal role in Haryana’s aspiration to become a $1 trillion economy by 2047.

The decision to introduce MSCs signifies a structural shift in higher education, moving beyond traditional frameworks. These colleges will serve as autonomous, multidisciplinary institutions that cater to local needs while maintaining global competitiveness. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in Haryana, targeting a significant increase by 2028.

Transforming Higher Education in Haryana
Currently, Haryana’s higher education system boasts over 184 government colleges, 97 aided colleges, and 86 private colleges, along with more than 40 universities. According to the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) for the 2021-22 academic year, more than 11 lakh students are enrolled in the state’s higher education institutions. The MSC initiative aims to harness this talent pool, guiding students towards improved employability and entrepreneurial success.

The first phase of the project focuses on establishing one MSC in each district, with the goal of evolving these institutions into hubs of excellence. The transformation will emphasize five foundational pillars. Firstly, MSCs will operate with a framework of graded autonomy, allowing them the freedom to innovate and adapt to local needs while being held accountable through performance metrics and accreditation standards.

Another crucial aspect of the MSC initiative is its commitment to local relevance. Each college will allocate a minimum of 30-40% of its coursework to address district-specific priorities. This approach ensures that students’ education is closely tied to the unique challenges and opportunities present in their regions, fostering the “Vocal for Local” ethos.

Enhancing Employability and Research
To further increase career readiness, MSCs will integrate industry partnerships into their programs. A minimum of 10% of courses will be linked to real-world applications, including work-integrated education and apprenticeships. This initiative aligns with Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s directive to prioritize skill development and industry collaboration across all educational institutions.

In addition to employability, MSCs will act as research hubs, collaborating with local industries to address real-world problems. These colleges are expected to generate patents, prototypes, and startups, contributing to the economic landscape of Haryana. Funding will be sourced from the Haryana State Research Fund, aligning with district priorities and fostering innovation.

The MSCs will also focus on multidisciplinary learning, allowing students to integrate knowledge across various domains. This holistic approach aims to cultivate innovative thinkers capable of tackling complex challenges in today’s fast-paced world.

By 2028, the success of the MSC initiative will be measured through tangible outcomes, including an increase in the GER and improved placement offers. The goal is to achieve a GER of around 40%, well ahead of the 50%% target set for 2035. Furthermore, the project aims to boost district-level placement offers by 25-40%, creating pathways for both domestic and international job opportunities.

Governance and Future Outlook
Governance of the MSC initiative will be overseen by the Higher Education Department and the Haryana Higher Education Council, ensuring that all institutions align with performance milestones. A Principal Competency Framework will be established, mandating professional development for educational leaders and faculty members.

As Haryana strives for its Vision 2047, the Model Sanskriti Colleges are positioned as crucial drivers of transformation. By enhancing educational access and quality, fostering research and innovation, and linking academia with industry, these colleges will play an essential role in shaping the state’s future.

In the words of renowned scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, “Dream, Dream, Dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.” Haryana’s Model Sanskriti Colleges are poised to turn dreams into reality, creating a robust educational ecosystem that supports the state’s ambitious economic goals.