Lucknow University (LU) is set to transform into a research and multi-disciplinary education institution with a grant of Rs 100 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA). LU Vice-Chancellor Alok Kumar Rai revealed plans to utilize 50% of the funds for research and the remaining 50% for infrastructure development.
The focus is on establishing a centralised research facility divided into life sciences, physical sciences, and technical research sections. Additionally, plans include setting up a cluster-computing facility and ensuring a 100% Wi-fi campus to facilitate research across various departments.
LU aims to become a multi-disciplinary educational institute by revamping classrooms, historical buildings like the Lal Baradari, and teacher’s quarters. A five-storey lecture theatre building is proposed to host national-level examinations, conferences, and academic events.
The lecture theatre building will have 25 conference rooms with a seating capacity of 100 each and sports infrastructure will be enhanced with new tracks and courts. LU was chosen for the grant based on its high score of 585 out of 650 in the grant parameters test, among 25 other universities. UP universities collectively received the highest grant amount of Rs 740 crore under PM-USHA scheme.
