Argus News - Reimagine Education System, Embrace Multidisciplinary Learning: Dharmendra Pradhan at SRCC Event

New Delhi, Feb 20: Calling for a reimagining of India’s education system, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday said multidisciplinary learning and research-driven campuses are essential to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

Speaking at 'Yugantar 2026' -- Management and Business Conclave of Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) -- one of the premier colleges under University of Delhi, the minister highlighted the institution’s legacy and its role in shaping national leadership.

Former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was an alumnus of SRCC, he noted, adding that Jaitley often cited the college as an example of academic excellence. “I shared a very close relationship with him,” the minister said.

Push for Multidisciplinary Education Under NEP
Referring to the ongoing AI summit in the country, Pradhan said Indian youth are displaying new enthusiasm and global ambition.

He stressed the need to rethink the country’s education framework and said the National Education Policy (NEP) provides an opportunity to adopt innovative approaches. Students, he said, must study economics and social sciences alongside commerce, while also embracing science and technology.

“Multidisciplinary education is the need of the hour,” he said, suggesting that students from one college of Delhi University should have the flexibility to pursue practical courses in another college under the same university system.

SRCC Should Evolve Into Research Campus
The minister expressed hope that SRCC would evolve into a research-oriented campus in the coming years.

He noted that Delhi offers students exposure to diverse cultures and languages, as young people from across India study in the capital. “This diversity is a strength and an opportunity,” he said.

Pradhan observed that today’s youth aspire not only to seek jobs but also to become job creators. “Along with earning employment, there should be a mindset to generate employment,” he said.

Also Read: Dharmendra Pradhan Urges Odisha CM To Develop Sambalpur & Angul Clusters As City Economic Regions

Indian Models and Global Leadership
Emphasising India’s civilisational roots, the minister said traditional respect for nature-air, fire, water, forests and the environment-has scientific relevance and should inform modern development models.

Citing global examples, he pointed out that leading technology firms such as Google and Microsoft are headed by Indian-origin CEOs, reflecting India’s growing global influence.

“My belief is that Indian youth will serve as ambassadors of the world. They will meet India’s needs while also offering solutions to global challenges,” he said.

Call for Degree College Status
The minister also urged the Vice-Chancellor of Delhi University to consider granting degree-awarding status to SRCC, underscoring the institution’s academic standing and contribution.