Remarkable Growth Story of RNTU- A Case Study | Original Article

ABSTRACT:

ABSTRACT

This Case study explores the unique journey of Rabindranath Tagore University, referred to as RNTU, in contributing to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4) related to Education, that India has committed to attain by 2030. The study delves in to the strategies, initiatives and outcomes that have positioned RNTU as a front runner in the national pursuit of outcome based education despite tough challenges it faced being the first private university in the state of Madhya Pradesh (M.P.)

RNTU adopted an eleven faceted action plan to address various dimensions of challenges thrown by SDG-4. These eleven fronts comprised, First – risk of establishing a University in a village, to effectively address Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) issue. Second – Liberal financial support to students Third – Recruiting right faculty and their development, Fourth – Novel approach for skill delivery, Fifth – using extension activity as empowering tool, Sixth – Applying new concept for boosting research, Seventh – Producing job creators, Eight – Motivation for research writing and meaningful events, Ninth – Lively campus like gurukul with most modern infrastructure, information system and excellent documentation Tenth – Proactive National Education Policy-20 (NEP-20) implementation and Eleventh – Creating inter and intra discipline approach with a big component of arts, language and culture. These approaches paid rich dividends is terms of significant contribution in Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking, Awards, record startups, visible development in adopted villages, excellent research outputs etc.     

The Case Study shows that how RNTU's journey towards SDG 4, serves as a compelling example of how higher education institutions can drive social change and contribute to the global agenda of providing quality holistic education for everyone. The study showcases the importance of collaboration, research, innovation, and a relentless commitment to excellence in advancing the cause of quality education, ultimately helping to transform lives and build a more sustainable future in a developing country like India where over 60% student come from tire 2/3 cities/Higher Education Institutes (HEIs).