Bhubaneswar, Dec. 23: The higher education department has directed all the six state-run universities to adopt at least 10 villages in their nearby areas and use their staff members to transform these into model villages.

'We have asked the villages and transform them into model villages. The universities need to provide solutions to the problems faced by the villagers. The varsity employees would act as resource persons. They can help in the areas of livelihood promotion, economy and health,' said minister of higher education Pradeep Panigrahi.

He said the Berhampur University had adopted a few villages. While the varsities have been asked to initiate the programme with the university development fund, provisions will also be made as part of the Rashtriya Ucchatar Siksha Abhiyaan.

'The universities must reach out to people in their region and disseminate knowledge, encourage innovation and promote environmental conservation. They have to encourage the participation of young local residents and help them increase their employability. They must also use their knowledge to develop the disadvantaged sections of the society,' Panigrahi said.

While the Utkal University has agreed to go ahead with the adoption process, it is yet to finalise the villages and design other modalities.

The Berhampur University adopted 10 villages adjoining the varsity in November and began some activities in the areas. It has tied up with the National Institute of Rural Development for the project. 'As many as 50 students, who are the National Service Scheme volunteers, are part of the initial project. This week, we sent 10 officers for an orientation programme in New Delhi,' said vice-chancellor Deepak Kumar Behera.

Students have been encouraged to search for solutions to issues such as renewable energy, climate changes, drinking water, sanitation and urbanisation.

'Universities have a pioneering role to play in society building. We believe in socially relevant education and involving students, who can act as catalysts for change,' said Behera. The students and teachers have been engaged to conduct surveys at the adopted villages. In the process, they would know more about the village requirements in terms of access to governmental services, financial inclusion and infrastructure.

Students encouraged the initiative. 'It is a good decision. We were, in fact, looking for an opportunity to work with the community, and it would be great if the varsity helps us do it. We can reach out to people and encourage them to innovate, promote environmental conservation and develop their skills,' said Utkal University student Ruma Panigrahi.

The other state-run universities in the state are Sambalpur University, North Odisha University in Baripada, Ravenshaw University and FM University in Balasore.