Indian and Saudi emigrants favored to invest in education

An Indian educator has favored national emigrants particularly businessmen, to invest in education that will produce people who can help develop India's economy.

Professor Habib-ur-Rehman, the former vice-chancellor of Agra University and the dean of the faculty of commerce and management at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), made the appeal at an installation ceremony of the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA) in Riyadh yesterday.

"There is a need to improve the quality of education in the country," he said. Indians need to have quality education on par with developed nations, he said.

He urged the Indian community, especially philanthropists and businesspeople, to ensure the country has top education combined with moral values as currently provided by the prestigious Aligarh Muslim University.

"Education is a must, but not at the cost of our rich culture and heritage," he said. "It is essential to sharpen the skills of students keeping in view international standards, but we must ensure that the young generation respects our rich cultural heritage as well."

He urged young people to explore their world and develop skills to become innovators so that the country emerges as a developed nation.

He said young people have a variety of options currently because of the many private universities in India. He said many parents have approached him and said they want their children to have a good education and to be cultured.

"Sir Syed has done a marvelous job, but AMU alone cannot fulfill the aspirations of the growing population. Therefore, I urge you to come forward and take the lead," he said.