Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday laid foundation stone for upcoming infrastructure development projects of the Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), launched the National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP) and inaugurated various infrastructure projects of the university.

launching the NAHEP, Patnaik urged upon maintaining an upward trajectory to develop the university as a model at national and international level. He also congratulated the OUAT for its achievement in the field of agricultural education, research and extension.

The project entitled “Branding the University for Excellence and Equity in Agricultural Education Producing Skill Graduates of Enhanced Employability and Entrepreneurship” has been awarded to the OUAT on a competitive basis under the Institutional Development Plan (IDP) from amongst 75 State, Central and Deemed agricultural universities of the country. The project aims at creating a student centric learning system, enhancing faculty competency and making the academic governance more efficient in order to achieve excellence in education.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Minister Pradeep Maharathy and ICAR Deputy Director General (Education) Dr NS Rathore appreciated the efforts of the OUAT in agriculture development of the State. Rathore said the university is now considered to be one among the five best agriculture universities of the country.

Agriculture Secretary Saurav Garg emphasised continuing collaboration and convergence of the State universities and departments in addressing the farmers’ issues.

OUAT VC Prof Surendranath Pasupalak presented a brief note on the efforts of the university in bringing in innovations.