SVKM to set up NMIMS University in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal Trust (SVKM) to establish a world-class educational campus in Bhubaneswar, named NMIMS University at Info-Valley, Khordha.

The MOU signing ceremony took place at Lok Seva Bhawan in the presence of higher education Minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak, chief secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena, development commissioner Anu Garg, and other dignitaries. Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aravind Agrawal, representing the higher education department, and Dr. Jayant Gandhi, honorary secretary of SVKM Trust, were the signatories of the MoU.

As part of this collaboration, the Odisha government has provided a lease of 40 acres of land in Goudakashipur, Jatni, free of cost and free registration for an initial period of 30 years, extendable for another 30 years. Additionally, the university is exempt from annual maintenance charges of IDCO.

The Higher Education Minister emphasized the significance of this MoU, stating that it marks a crucial milestone for the state, particularly for the Higher Education Department. He highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing education, fostering growth, and creating a brighter future.

This partnership represents a transformative initiative to expand educational horizons within Odisha. The establishment of a world-class educational campus near the temple city aligns with the state’s dedication to improving the quality of higher education. The terms outlined in the agreement emphasize a path toward educational excellence, including global engagement and admission opportunities for 30% of seats for Odisha domicile students based on merit.

The minister emphasized that the collaboration is not merely about infrastructure but also about nurturing a culture of learning and innovation. He noted the shared responsibility in bearing expenses as a commitment to fostering an environment conducive to growth and knowledge dissemination.

The Honourary Secretary, Dr. Jayant Gandhi, commended Odisha for providing the opportunity to establish the university. He expressed the trust’s commitment to setting up an international standard educational campus that will impart quality education across all levels, from kindergarten to post graduation.

The development of the campus and its facilities will occur in phases with support from the Odisha government. The Higher Education Department will reimburse the cost of land to IDCO, with an initial investment of Rs. 300 crore for the first phase within five years of land allocation. SVKM will bear expenses related to infrastructure development, repairs, renovations, landscaping, utilities, equipment, and human resources. This collaborative effort aims not only to establish a campus but also to shape destinies and contribute to the holistic development of the region.