UP Govt Renames 5 Engineering Colleges to Honour National Icons and Promote Value-Based Education
In a landmark move to integrate cultural, moral, and national values into the technical education framework, the Uttar Pradesh government has renamed five state engineering colleges after iconic Indian personalities and historical figures. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and approved by Governor Anandiben Patel, the initiative is positioned as more than a symbolic gesture—it’s a strategic effort to instill values of social responsibility, leadership, and national pride in the new generation of engineers.
A Visionary Step Toward Value-Based Technical Education
Uttar Pradesh’s Technical Education Minister Ashish Patel announced the initiative and described it as a “historic step to instill values in the new generation.” He emphasized that the move is designed to inspire students to achieve academic and technical excellence and emerge as socially responsible leaders. According to Patel, this step will help young minds develop stronger self-confidence, cultural identity, and civic duty.
“This initiative goes beyond changing names. It reflects the vision of an education system that produces not just engineers but leaders deeply rooted in India’s social and ethical values,” he said.
New Names of the Engineering Colleges
The five renamed colleges are spread across different districts of Uttar Pradesh and now carry the names of revered national leaders and cultural icons. Here are the new names:
- Rajkiya Engineering College, Pratapgarh
→ Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Rajkiya Engineering College - Rajkiya Engineering College, Mirzapur
→ Samrat Ashoka Rajkiya Engineering College - Rajkiya Engineering College, Basti
→ Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rajkiya Engineering College - Rajkiya Engineering College, Gonda
→ Maa Pateshwari Devi Rajkiya Engineering College - Rajkiya Engineering College, Mainpuri
→ Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Rajkiya Engineering College
Each name pays tribute to a distinct personality whose legacy reflects social justice, national unity, visionary leadership, or cultural heritage.
Symbolism with Substance
While name changes in educational institutions are often seen as symbolic, the UP government insists that this initiative has a deeper educational and societal purpose. According to the official statement, these names are expected to become “sources of inspiration,” encouraging students to live by the values of these great leaders.
For instance, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, represents the ideals of social justice and equality. Naming the Pratapgarh college after him aims to embed these principles within the student community.
Samrat Ashoka, known for his transformation from a warrior to a proponent of peace and dharma, symbolizes moral leadership—an important value for students stepping into the professional world.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and a key figure in the country’s unification, embodies national integration and decisive leadership—qualities vital for today’s engineers working in complex, global systems.
Maa Pateshwari Devi, a revered deity, signifies spiritual and cultural grounding, especially important in preserving regional identity and values.
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, known for her visionary governance and devotion to public welfare, sets an example of inclusive and ethical leadership.
Beyond Technical Skills: Fostering Leadership and Responsibility
The renaming is part of the state government's broader strategy to transform technical education in Uttar Pradesh into a holistic development model. The focus is no longer confined to producing technically sound graduates; the aim is to nurture socially conscious individuals who are ready to contribute to nation-building.
“These institutions will prepare our youth not just with degrees but with the ability to take up leadership roles in society,” said Patel. He noted that values like justice, harmony, responsibility, and cultural identity must be deeply ingrained into education if the next generation is to lead with integrity and purpose.
Wider Educational Implications
This move also aligns with the national goals under the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes an education system rooted in Indian ethos while being aligned with 21st-century needs. The renaming of these colleges reflects a localized effort to operationalize these ideals—combining global competence with cultural rootedness.
Educationists and policymakers are increasingly calling for a values-based approach to higher education, particularly in technical fields with immense societal impact. Engineers shape infrastructure, technology, and innovation—areas that must be aligned with ethical and inclusive development.
Public and Institutional Reactions
The announcement has been welcomed mainly in academic and political circles, especially by those who value grounding education within the Indian historical and moral context. However, the real impact will be measured by how these institutions integrate this value-centric vision into curriculum, teaching methodologies, and student engagement.
Critics have cautioned against tokenism and stressed the need for tangible reforms in teaching quality, infrastructure, and research capabilities. Supporters, however, argue that these symbolic actions can serve as powerful starting points for deeper institutional transformation.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Meaningful Educational Reform
The renaming of five state engineering colleges in Uttar Pradesh marks more than a change in nomenclature—it signals a deliberate shift toward holistic education rooted in India’s rich cultural and ethical heritage. If followed through with thoughtful implementation, this initiative could set a precedent for blending technical excellence with values-driven leadership, preparing a generation of engineers to build infrastructure and a more just, inclusive, and self-aware society.
