North East

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Lays Foundation Stone for Assam’s First Technical and Vocational University

• 08 Nov 2025

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday laid the foundation stone for Assam’s first university dedicated to technical and vocational education and training. The new institution, named Swahid Kanaklata Barua State University, will be established at Bholaguri in Biswanath district.

The university will offer courses in cutting-edge technology domains, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, cybersecurity, blockchain, drone and navigation technology, quantum computing, brain-computer interface, Internet of Things (IoT), and smart cities and smart environments.

Spread over 241 acres with a built-up area of 7 lakh square feet, the campus will feature academic blocks for 2,000 students, hostels accommodating 1,620 students, residential quarters, a guest house, and a student facility center.

The university is named after Kanaklata Barua, a 17-year-old freedom fighter who was shot dead during the Quit India Movement in 1942 while leading a procession bearing the National Flag at Gohpur. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was also present at the ceremony.