Bhubaneswar: To promote qualitative higher education and research, a historic collaboration with Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal Trust (SVKM) and Government of Odisha has been made with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth Rs 300 crore.
This MoU has been signed today in the presence of Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak, Minister of Higher Education, Chief Secretary, Pradeep Kumar Jena, Development Commissioner-cum-ACS Anu Garg and other dignitaries in a programme held at Lok Seva Bhawan.
This will establish a world-class educational campus in Bhubaneswar namely NMIMS University at Info-Valley, Khordha.
On behalf of the Higher Education Department, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Aravind Agrawal & from SVKM Trust Honourary Secretary Dr Jayant Gandhi signed the MoU.
The State government has allocated 40 acres of land on lease in Goudakashipur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar for the establishment of this University free of cost and free registration for an initial period of 30 years, extendable for another 30 years and free from annual maintenance charges of IDCO.
Speaking on the occasion Minister of Higher Education said that, the signing of the MoU with SVKM is a significant milestone for the State, especially for the Higher Education Department. This partnership embodies our dedication to elevating education, fostering growth, and nurturing a brighter future for all, he added.
This collaboration between the Government of Odisha and SVKM represents a transformative initiative in expanding educational horizons within the State by establishing a world-class educational campus near the temple city of Odisha catering to diverse academic needs, aligning with Odisha’s commitment to elevating the quality of higher education.
The outlined terms illustrate a path towards educational excellence – from being a learning resource centre fostering global engagement to admission opportunities for 30% seats for Odisha domicile students based on merit.
“This collaboration isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about nurturing a culture of learning and innovation. The responsibility shared in bearing expenses underscores our joint commitment to fostering an environment conducive to growth and knowledge dissemination,” the Minister said.
“By aligning with SVKM, we’re sowing the seeds for a world-class educational hub, bolstering Odisha’s stature in higher education. Together, we’re not just establishing a campus; we’re shaping destinies and contributing to the holistic development of our region”, he added.
Honourary Secretary, Dr Gandhi signed the MoU and complimented Odisha State for allowing the establishing of this University.
“We are going to set up an international standard educational campus which will impart quality education for the students,” Dr Gandhi said.
Among others Vice Chairperson, OSHEC Dr Ashoka Kumar Das, Arup Pattnaik, Jagadish B. Parikh, Honourary, Joint Secretary, SVKM Trust present on the occasion.
Odisha has formulated detailed guidelines for the establishment of Private Universities in the State,
The campus will encompass educational facilities from Kindergarten (KG) to Postgraduate (PG) levels. The campus development and other facilities will be done in a phased manner with support from the Odisha government.
The cost of land shall be reimbursed to IDCO by the Higher Education Department with an initial investment of Rs 300 Crore for the first phase within 5 years of land allocation. SVKM shall bear expenses related to infrastructure development, repairs, renovations, landscaping, utilities, equipment, and human resources.
This collaboration holds immense promise for the advancement of higher education and academic excellence in Odisha.
