Vadodara or Baroda, as it was previously known, was the capital of the state of Gaekwad. Since its inception, it has been a cultural and historical center and is known for its infrastructure development and education. One of the forces behind this transformation was the ruler of the state, Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad, who was a visionary and capable statesman.
It caused major changes in the basic infrastructure and amenities in your state. Some of his notable contributions are in the field of education, social betterment of the oppressed, agricultural reforms, infrastructure development, including the largest network of narrow-gauge railroads in his entire state, and also the promotion of the fine arts.
Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad’s most important contribution was in the field of education. He was the first Indian ruler to introduce compulsory and free education for all children in 1906, thus placing his region far ahead of contemporary British India.
Over the years, he became very interested in the educational development of his state. Its rich collection of books became the basis for the current Baroda Central Library with a network of libraries in all cities and towns under its jurisdiction.
As time passed, Baroda became synonymous with education and all of this happened thanks to the efforts of Maharaja Sayaji Rao. On the occasion of his celebration of the Diamond Jubilee of his accession to the throne, Maharaja Sayaji Rao set aside a large fund from his personal and state assets for the creation of a University in Baroda. The main objective of this initiative was to provide an avenue for less fortunate students in rural areas. This idea was carried forward by his grandson, Sir Pratap Singh Rao Gaekwad.
Maharaja Sayaji Rao University of Baroda: And so, Maharaja Sayaji Rao University was established under the aegis of the Diamond Jubilee and Sayaji Rao Memorial Trust, which is a prestigious center of higher education. The idea of opening a University in Baroda was conceived by Dr. Jackson in 1908. It was originally called the Baroda College of Science.
Courses offered by the University: MSU is a progressive center of higher education. The university offers a variety of courses that belong to almost all streams of education. Offers
1. Certificate course
2. Diploma
3. Bachelor’s degree
4. PG Diploma
5. Teachers
6. Mr. Phil
7. Doctorate
Core Facilities Provided by MSU: The university has the most modern facilities for students and staff, helping them stay focused in their academic pursuit of excellence. MSU offers the following facilities and amenities:
1. Library
2. Computer center
3. Health center
4. Guest house
5. General education center
6. University press
MSU Departments – The University strives for the holistic development of its students and therefore there are faculties and departments from almost every stream of education. The concept behind the University was to educate more and more students of local origin. And that is why local languages also play an important role in the University’s academics. Students make use of the following departments:
1. Faculty of Arts
2. Faculty of Sciences
3. Faculty of Education and Psychology
4. Faculty of Medicine
5. Faculty of Technology and Engineering
6. Faculty of Law
7. Faculty of Fine Arts
8. Faculty of Family and Community Sciences
9. Faculty of Social Work
10. Faculty of Performing Arts
11. Faculty of Management Studies
12. Faculty of Journalism and Communication
13. Sanskrit Mahavidayalaya
13. Polytechnic
Therefore, Maharaja Sayaji Rao University plays a key role in the academic development of students from Gujarat and other states in the country. MSU serves more than 30,000 students in various colleges.
