Innovation is key to industrial development and universities in South Asia should provide necessary "ambience" to promote research and innovation, President Pranab Mukherjee said today as he was conferred an honorary D.Litt by a leading Nepalese varsity.
In his acceptance speech, Mukherjee underlined that in global rankings, educational institutes of the region do not figure.
He said it is not due to a lack of talent in students or faculty but because "certain technicalities" need to be worked upon.
Mukherjee, a history aficionado, said the region which was known for institutions like Taxila and Nalanda has lost its sheen over the years.
Citing the example of German industrial revolution during Otto von Bismarck's rule, he said need of the hour was to promote research and innovation in the universities as that is the precursor of industrial revolution.
"There is close connection between research and industrial development," he said.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', who is the Chancellor of Kathmandu University, conferred Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) to Mukherjee in recognition of his outstanding contribution in Public Relations, regional cooperation and international relations.
Earlier, Mukherjee, who is on a three-day state visit to Nepal, started his day by offering prayers at the historical Pashupatinath Temple.
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