Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday emphasized on the need to invest substantially in education sector to upgrade its quality besides focusing on innovation and research activities.

“There was no Indian university among the top 200 universities in the world till a few years ago when three IITs and the IIS, Bangalore found place. But, there is still much more to be done as the required emphasis has not been given on research,” Pranab Mukherjee said while addressing students and faculty members at the annual lecture of Ravenshaw University Development Trust (RUDT) in Cuttack.

“For God’s sake please invest more in basic research,” he said, adding, “Contribute handsomely, you will take back handsomely.”

He also stressed on the need of making critical reforms in India’s education system.

“What is needed most is emphasis on research and education, along with exchange programmes with other countries involving students, teachers and researchers,” he said.

Stating that he had visited many universities while he was President of India and gathered experiences, Mukherjee emphasised on the linkages between education and industry.

“Innovation should be linked to the local markets for necessary support and development,” he said, adding, “Besides, we should also focus more on innovation and research.”

Mukherjee said that the government’s priorities should be on education, entrepreneurship and skilled innovation and research at the level of higher education.

Stating that the growth in Sensex is not real, the former President said these are only financial transactions.

“The real growth will take place when income generation reaches every person thereby increasing employment and people possess large wealth, Mukherjee said.