“Education Is the Wealth of the Future”: Minister Chandrakant Patil Highlights NEP Vision at ISB&M Convocation

Pune: Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil on Saturday described education as the “wealth of the future,” stressing that India’s long-term growth will be driven by innovation, research and skill-based learning aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the 25th Silver Jubilee Convocation Ceremony of the International School of Business and Media (ISB&M), Pune, where around 300 students from the 2023–2025 graduating batch received their degrees.

‘India Moving Towards Global Leadership by 2047’

Addressing the gathering, Patil said both the central and state governments are focused on strengthening research-driven and innovation-based education systems.

He added that India is steadily moving toward becoming one of the world’s leading economic and social powers by 2047, despite global uncertainty and economic challenges.

“Education is not just about earning a degree; it is a powerful tool for personality development, confidence building and economic progress,” he said.

NEP 2020 at the Core of Education Reform

Patil highlighted that Maharashtra is actively leading the implementation of NEP 2020, which emphasizes practical learning, research orientation and industry relevance.

He also noted that institutions demonstrating strong academic and infrastructure standards could be considered for upgraded status in the future, including the possibility of becoming private universities.

The government, he said, will take decisions based on compliance with required academic and quality benchmarks.

ISB&M Praised for Industry-Focused Learning

The minister praised ISB&M for its focus on industry-oriented education, innovation and holistic student development.

He said the institution has built a strong identity in the education sector and is being considered for future private university status, subject to meeting all regulatory requirements.

If granted, such a status would help expand research opportunities, global collaborations and access to world-class education for students.

Leaders Call for Nation-Building Mindset

ISB&M Founder Chairman Dr. Pramod Kumar encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship and contribute to India’s growth story, quoting Swami Vivekananda’s message: “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached.”

Chairman Shekhar Mundada urged students to contribute to national development even if they pursue global careers, emphasizing service to society alongside professional success.

Dr. Atul Kharate highlighted India’s rapid progress across key sectors including energy, agriculture and infrastructure, stating that young graduates will play a crucial role in building a developed India.

Awards Recognize Student Excellence

The convocation also celebrated outstanding student achievements across campuses:

• Shambhavi Swaim – ISB&M Nande Top Performer Award
• Jaya Saini – ISB&M Nande All-Rounder Award
• Abhiraj Singh Rathod – Leadership Award
• Sakira Sinha – ISB&M Kolkata Best Academic Performer Award
• Anushya Ghosh – Best All-Rounder Award
• Gaurav Kshirsagar – MIBM All-Rounder (Boys) Award
• Leena Pal – MIBM All-Rounder (Girls) Award

A Call for Lifelong Learning

The ceremony concluded with dignitaries and faculty urging students to embrace lifelong learning, innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of India’s future growth story.

With NEP 2020 reforms gaining momentum and institutions like ISB&M expanding their academic footprint, leaders said the next generation of graduates will play a central role in shaping a developed India by 2047.