How Dehradun Emerged As The Higher Education Hub

Located in the stunning Doon valley on the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun has been dubbed the “school capital of India” for decades. Former Prime Minister of India Shri Rajiv Gandhi, renowned author Amitav Ghosh, Olympic Gold medal winner Abhinav Bindra are just some of the prominent names who have received education in the city. But in the recent years, Dehradun has also emerged as the sought after hub for higher education with Engineering, Medical and Management institutions growing in numbers.

Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune have been the traditional powerhouses when it comes to higher education in the country. However there has been a significant shift in the past decade as aspirants choose to look towards newer destinations to realize their professional dreams. Of course, the initiatives taken by the Uttarakhand Government to promote higher education in the state has been instrumental in positioning Dehradun as a leader in the field. There are other compelling reasons that have led to its growth as the education hub.

• Several other obvious impacts of the pandemic on higher education are much-discussed. But it’s also important to remember that during the period and since then, students and aspirants have focused their attention on destinations that offer them the sense of safety and comfort they need. The idyllic location of Dehradun, sprawling campuses students have access to, have been compelling factors in their decision-making.
• One also has to account for the changing demands of today’s Gen Z students. While they are determined to get the perfect academic platform for their professional success, they also want to experience their student life to the fullest. Dehradun is the perfect setting for students to explore beautiful Nature, participate in activities, sports, pursue their passions, and emerge as well-rounded professionals.
• Another factor is the growth of the rural economy in the country, which has led to a larger number of students from remote parts of India travelling the distance to fulfill their career aspirations. While Dehradun offers them the perks of city life, its languid pace and serene surroundings mean they can feel at home with ease. DBUU alone has students from over 25 states, speaking more than 40 languages, representing varied cultures.
• The state of Uttarakhand, and Dehradun and its surroundings in particular, have also emerged as industrial hubs in North India. Today the area has become home to large scale organizations, fledgling startups and small businesses alike. It offers students in the city a brilliant opportunity to learn from the practitioners, get real-world professional exposure through internships etc., and build their network in the industry.
• None of these factors would have mattered, if institutions of higher learning in the city hadn’t stepped up their game. We have adapted to meet the changing industry demands, student goals, as well as trends including AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain and other emerging technologies. Today, all aspirants can head to Dehradun knowing they have access to education that is on par with the best in the country.