Dr. Ravi Kant Pathak is a visionary Indian educationist and environmentalist, currently serving as a professor at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden. Born into an economically disadvantaged farming family, he overcame challenges to earn scholarships for his education, eventually obtaining his B.Tech and M.Tech degrees from the Indian Institute of Technology Mumbai in 1999 and a Ph.D. from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and conducting post-doctoral research at Carnegie Mellon University in the United States. In 2007, inspired by the environmental and social issues in rural India, he returned to India to initiate transformative projects in the Bundelkhand region. Dr. Pathak founded Bharat Uday Karma Yogi Ashram, a centre for sustainable development and innovation, establishing initiatives such as organic farming, educational institutions, and research centres. His pioneering work, including the creation of a bio-forest village and the Bundelkhand International Air Pollution Research Institute, reflects his commitment to sustainable development and combating climate change. Dr. Pathak’s life exemplifies dedication to service, blending Indian values with global knowledge for the betterment of society.
In an exclusive interview with The Interview World, Dr. Pathak discusses his groundbreaking initiative in founding The Water University, the world’s first of its kind, situated in Bundelkhand. Here are excerpts from the interview:
Q: What is the primary objective behind establishing The Water University?
A: In a world where water is increasingly becoming a scarce resource, it is crucial to disseminate knowledge about water to future generations. Thus, we are establishing the world’s first Water University in Bundelkhand, a region known for water scarcity. Spanning 60 acres, it is more than just a university; it is a movement with scientific and social dimensions.
Q: What kind of setup and courses do you plan to offer through this university?
A: This is an international university featuring a consortium of scientists, researchers, administrators, water educators, and activists. Noteworthy for the Indian masses is the “Pani Ki Pathsala,” a school in every village, established in collaboration with state and central governments on a non-profit basis. The curriculum, prepared by us, will be disseminated to learners with government support. The university will offer national and international programs (bachelor’s and master’s), providing certifications covering multidisciplinary aspects of water, including science, technology, management, and extracurricular activities. We will also explore water beyond Earth in the extraterrestrial world, conducting various scientific investigations.
Q: Considering the significance of water in our ecosystem, why hasn’t such a university been established worldwide?
A: Water has often been taken for granted, and studies usually focus on government-led water management for the masses and irrigation. However, there is a vast unexplored area that delves into the interaction of water with various elements such as light and sound, as detailed in ancient texts. It is essential to investigate and disseminate this knowledge to the younger generation through scientific evidence.
Q: When do you expect this university to commence operations?
A: We anticipate the university to be established within the next two years, potentially by December 2025. We are currently in discussions with the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Union Government, awaiting their approval. Once we receive the green signal, operations will commence. We rely on the support of the masses, philanthropists, CSR funding, and the government, requiring a collective effort. Paperwork has already been submitted to the state government for approval, with positive feedback and efforts towards formalizing processes.
Q: Are there any international collaborations for this project?
A: We are actively seeking collaboration with the UN and working on Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and other formats. Through my personal network, researchers, including professors in Gothenburg, will contribute. Our consortium of scientists focuses on atmospheric water, addressing dimensions such as water and air pollution, the Ganga, and river integration. Research also delves into the interaction of water with materials like stones, soils, and wood, offering vast prospects for unknown knowledge.
Very good platform for expanding of the water resources,who is responsible for water pollution? What’s the reason of water pollution? Water University is the complete solution of water problem.We say Water is Life.We can not live without water.Hence Water University is necessary for the world.
I am proud of Dr R K Pathak who is working in Sweden and his soul and mind is thinking and planning for development of India as well as Indian community along with welfare of world’s Humanity.