LG Sandhu urges universities to drive social change beyond campuses

New Delhi: Delhi lieutenant governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu recently interacted with vice-chancellors and directors of universities and higher educational institutions under Govt of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD), stressing the need for stronger and seamless linkages between academia, society, government and industry to equip students with skills, enhance employability and encourage entrepreneurship.

Sandhu, who is also the chancellor of these universities and institutions, urged educational institutions to sensitise students towards adopting austerity measures such as reducing fossil fuel consumption through greater use of public transport and carpooling instead of private vehicles. “These nearly three lakh students could become ambassadors who, apart from sensitising their families, can also influence peer behaviour among their friends and social circles,” he said.

He added that students should also be actively involved in issues such as women’s safety, traffic decongestion, green mobility and urban sustainability, water conservation and groundwater recharge, waste management and broader social contribution. Sandhu underlined that universities and higher educational institutions should evolve into key drivers of a “Delhi Behavioural Change Mission”.

The meeting also focused on major urban challenges confronting the capital, with universities being encouraged to undertake collaborative, research-driven solutions. Areas highlighted included air pollution and its public health impact, equitable water distribution, Yamuna rejuvenation, waste management, traffic management, electric mobility and intelligent transport systems.

Institutions were also urged to work on mental health, addiction and youth well-being, alongside research on urban poverty, migrant livelihoods and the informal economy. Given Delhi’s vulnerability to earthquakes and floods, universities were encouraged to develop disaster resilience frameworks and strengthen disease surveillance and epidemic preparedness in collaboration with health authorities.