Higher standards in higher education can play a key role in improving people’s earnings and strengthening the country’s overall economy, said G. Viswanathan, founder and Chancellor of VIT, while speaking at a recent academic gathering on Saturday. He pointed out that better quality education directly supports higher per capita income and contributes to steady growth in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
At the same time, governments look at education as a long-term solution for unemployment and slow income growth. What Dr Viswanathan said brings both these viewpoints together. When higher education improves in quality, not just in numbers, it helps students get better skills, better jobs and better pay. That, in turn, improves household income and strengthens the wider economy. This is why such statements are important for students planning their careers, parents making financial decisions, and even for policymakers shaping the next phase of education reforms in India.
Education and Its Direct Link to Income Growth
Speaking at the event, Dr Viswanathan explained that higher education is one of the strongest drivers of individual and national income. When students receive quality training at colleges and universities, they become more productive at work. This higher productivity naturally leads to better wages and improved living standards.
He added that countries which have invested heavily in higher education over several decades have shown clear improvements in:
- Per capita income
- Industrial growth
- Innovation and research output
- Employment opportunities for youth
According to him, India is also moving in the same direction, but the focus now should be on improving quality rather than only increasing the number of institutions.
Role of Universities in Building a Skilled Workforce
Dr Viswanathan stressed that universities must not limit themselves to classroom teaching alone. They should actively prepare students for real-world challenges. This includes strong industry connections, updated syllabi and practical exposure through internships and projects.
Some key areas he highlighted were:
- Industry-oriented courses
- Use of modern technology in teaching
- Focus on research and innovation
- Training in communication and soft skills
He noted that when students graduate with relevant skills, they are more likely to secure good-paying jobs, which directly improves per capita income figures.
Higher Education and GDP Growth
Another important point made by the Chancellor was the impact of education on the country’s GDP. A well-educated workforce helps industries grow faster, attracts foreign investment and supports entrepreneurship. All these factors together push economic growth.
He said that when higher education institutions produce skilled engineers, scientists, managers and researchers, it strengthens sectors such as manufacturing, information technology, healthcare and renewable energy. These sectors are already major contributors to India’s GDP, and their growth depends largely on the quality of talent available.
Need for Continuous Improvement in Educational Standards
Dr Viswanathan also called for continuous reforms in higher education. He pointed out that education systems cannot remain static while industries and technologies keep changing. Regular updates in curriculum, teacher training and infrastructure are necessary to keep Indian students globally competitive.
He encouraged academic institutions to collaborate with both Indian and international industries to understand emerging skill demands. This, he said, will ensure that students remain employable and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
