Kolkata, Aug 22 (IANS): West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan Thursday observed that despite the new model of learning introduced in the Presidency University, "some correctives" may be required.
"There are no doubt concerns expressed that many venerable practices of the past are being given a go-by, also that there are too much reliance on practices followed by western universities," Narayanan said during the first convocation of the university here after it was upgraded in 2010.
South Asian historian Ranajit Guha and physical chemistry exponent Mihir Chowdhury received honorary D.Litt. and D.Sc. in absentia.
Narayanan said, "This is inevitable and it is possible that some correctives may be required."
The governor, also chancellor of the historic educational establishment, hailed its physics and mathematics departments.
"I am particularly optimistic about contemplating changes regarding the physical and mathematical science departments. These departments have attracted some outstanding faculties from the country and across the world," said Narayanan.
"If India hopes to become one of the leading scientific hubs we will need to superbly shape our science education to attain this objective. I am certain that Presidency University will be able to produce the desired level of quality science education and help create new generation of outstanding scientists who can then take on the world," said Narayanan.
Presidency University has its roots in the Hindu College, established in 1817. It was christened Presidency College in 1855.
The previous Left Front government in the state upgraded it as a university in 2010. This is the first convocation after the upgradation.
Its alumni include Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, Subhas Chandra Bose, Satyajit Ray, Marxist leader Jyoti Basu and India's first president Rajendra Prasad.
The college's foreign alumni, distinguished students and luminaries from all walks of life graced the occasion Thursday that awarded degrees to 340 post-graduate students.
Chairman of the Presidency Mentor Group Sugata Bose and eminent physicist Bikash Sinha were also present.