Chennai: Anna University, Chennai, is set to undergo a major upgrade at a cost of Rs 500 crore, Higher Education Minister Govi. Cheliyan said on Sunday, adding that a government order to this effect would be issued shortly.

The announcement was made during the centenary celebrations of the Guindy Engineering College Alumni Association at the Anna University campus. Minister Cheliyan also inaugurated the newly built Hall of Fame on the occasion.

Highlighting the state's achievements in education, he said Tamil Nadu ranks first in women's education and leads the country in the number of doctoral degree holders. The minister noted that Guindy Engineering College has the distinction of being the only college in India where a woman joined engineering studies as early as 1944.

Higher Education Secretary Shankar stated that the Rs 500-crore upgrade would include various modern facilities and enhancements aimed at strengthening research and academic infrastructure at the university.

Officials said the planned improvements are expected to benefit both students and faculty, further consolidating Anna University's position as a leading centre for technical education in the country.