The School Of Integrated Learning (SOIL), in collaboration with European universities and international higher educational consultative organizations, has recently announced the establishment of a dedicated research center aimed at fostering sustainable higher education (HE) programs[^1]. This initiative is supported by the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Yadav, who has recognized the potential benefits for students in Etawah and other regions of the state[^1].
SOIL’s mission is to bridge the higher education divide by providing quality education opportunities to underprivileged communities, incorporating both virtual and traditional learning practices[^1]. The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education for the 18-23-year-old age group in India stands at 27.30% as of 2019-20, which underscores the importance of such initiatives in addressing educational disparities[^1].
A Letter of Intent (LoI) has been exchanged between SOIL, the European University, and the International Higher Education delegation, marking a significant step towards formalizing this partnership[^1]. The Vice-Chancellor of the collaborating European University expressed enthusiasm and commitment to working towards the upliftment of marginalized communities through this initiative[^1].
Himalaya’s Valley Educational and Charitable Trust, the not-for-profit organization behind SOIL, has been instrumental in starting India’s First Higher Education initiative in partnership with International HEIs to support economically weaker backgrounds[^1]. The founding trustee of SOIL, Aalok Pratap Narayan Singh, conveyed his delight at receiving support from Akhilesh Yadav and emphasized the initiative’s focus on holistic development for students from deprived sections[^1].
In the upcoming months, plans are set to collaboratively implement this ambitious project, with the dates for the foundation stone ceremony to be announced shortly[^1].
[^1]: https://www.aninews.in/news/business/business/soil-and-european-universities-join-forces-former-state-chief-welcomes-sustainable-research-centre-in-etawah20240205161612/
