University Pledges 100% Employment for Horticulture Students: Dr. Danda Rajireddy
Hyderabad, Nov 2, 2024: Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University is set to introduce significant changes in its curriculum to enhance student skills and ensure 100% employment for horticulture graduates in Telangana. Vice Chancellor Dr. Danda Rajireddy made this announcement during a meeting with students and scientists at the College of Horticulture in Rajendranagar on Saturday.
Dr. Rajireddy emphasized the university’s commitment to making students industry-ready by fostering collaborations with leading industries and expert institutions. “We are working to equip students with practical skills and industry knowledge. Our aim is to guarantee employment for every graduate in the horticulture sector,” he stated.
He also addressed the growing challenges posed by climate change, urging horticulturists to focus on mitigating the impact on crops. The Vice Chancellor highlighted the importance of research students, calling them the backbone of the university, and announced plans for district-level and state-level farmer-scientist conferences to tackle issues related to specific horticultural crops.
Future of Horticulture in Telangana
Dr. Rajireddy pointed to the bright future of horticulture in Telangana, which currently contributes 25% to the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) from just 12.8 lakh acres of land under cultivation. He underscored the need to develop strategies to support farmers and drive the growth of the sector, despite the risks involved.
Practical Research, Not Sensationalism
In a clear message to the university’s researchers, Dr. Rajireddy stressed the need for practical, farmer-focused research, discouraging sensational projects that offer little value to farmers. “Our research should aim at increasing yield, improving quality, and reducing costs for farmers. We need to focus on what truly benefits them,” he said. He also revealed plans to organize state-level conferences for each major horticultural crop grown in Telangana, as well as create a horticultural crop calendar to guide farmers throughout the year.
Recognizing the increasing number of women farmers in horticulture, the university is planning special fairs dedicated to women, providing them with targeted support and resources.
Addressing the Vegetable Shortage
Dr. Rajireddy acknowledged the current vegetable shortage in the state and assured that the university is working on long-term solutions. “We are developing methods to ensure the state’s future vegetable supply and support farmers in making their cultivation more profitable,” he said. He added that the university would collaborate with other specialized institutions across the country to enhance its research and extension services.
Key Participants
The event was attended by several university officials, including Registrar Bhagwan, Dean Dr. M. Rajasekhar, THUTA President Dr. J. Cheena Naik, General Secretary T. Suresh, Controller of Examinations Dr. Srinivasan, Estate Officer Nageshwar Reddy, Associate Dean Dr. Prashanth, Dr. Saidaiah, along with professors, THUTA members, Non-Teaching Association President Yadaiah, and a large gathering of students.
The Vice Chancellor’s address was met with appreciation from both students and faculty, who expressed optimism about the university’s future direction.
