Dr George John, renowned biotechnologist and retired senior advisor, department of biotechnology, Government of India on Wednesday took over as the Vice Chancellor of Birsa Agricultural University (BAU).
Addressing the senior officers of the University in Board Room, the VC said he would first understand the system and then chalk out strategies. However, developing entrepreneurship among students, strengthening of infrastructure and linkage with national-international agencies would be among his priorities for larger goal of development of the region. He would take forward the agenda of the institution with cooperation of all sections of the University in a participatory mode.
There are challenges but those could be met with proper planning and execution, he added. Dr John said there is no dearth of fund for research and innovation provided we are articulate in presenting the case and meet the benchmark set by the funding agencies.
For research and development in biotechnology, enough funds can be had from Union Government’s department of science & technology, department of biotechnology and Bill & Millinda Gates Foundation, he added.