Friday, May 5 2006 10:19 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: As the controversy rages over Government's proposal to hike reservation in institutions of higher learning, Union HRD Minister Arjun Singh yesterday (May 4, 2006) expressed concern over less than ten per cent of the youth having access to college education.

"We have nearly 350 universities and equivalent institutions and well over 17,000 colleges but less than ten per cent of the youth have access to higher education," he said adding this figure does not convincingly tell us about the deprivation of those who are marginalised.

There are concerns about issues of access, quality, equity and relevance in the education sector and deemed universities have an important role to play in this regard, Singh said here inaugurating a conference on "Deemed to be Universities: Role and Responsibilities."

Singh asked the stakeholders in the education sector to ensure that no eligible youth in the country is denied the opportunity of stepping into a college or other institution of higher learning.

However, this should be done without compromising with the quality of teaching and education.

"The ultimate objective that must drive managements is that of delivering high quality education, which is accessible and affordable for all and at par with the best anywhere," he said.