On Wednesday, during the 29th convocation ceremony at Bundelkhand University, UP Governor Anandiben Patel called upon students to engage actively in research and innovation, particularly in relation to the Defence Corridor. She emphasized the importance of leveraging their university-acquired knowledge to contribute to the nation’s progress.
Connecting Education with National Progress
Governor Patel highlighted the crucial role regional universities play in bridging the gap between students and research initiatives. She encouraged students to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, specifically through the study of ancient manuscripts, many of which are preserved at universities. The Governor underscored the necessity of digitizing these manuscripts to ensure their protection and accessibility for future generations.
The Governor pointed to India’s rising status as a global power, citing significant recent events that underscore this position. She mentioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin sought Prime Minister Modi’s insights before the BRICS summit, and noted that during Modi’s recent visit to the United States, 300 stolen cultural artefacts were returned to India. She also highlighted India’s leadership role during the G20 summit and its progress toward becoming a manufacturing hub via the Make in India initiative.
Celebrating Academic Achievements
During the ceremony, a total of 21,706 degrees were awarded, including 17,309 undergraduate and 2,241 postgraduate degrees. The Governor presented medals to 82 outstanding students, 60 of whom were women, comprising 36 chancellor’s medals and sponsored medals. Furthermore, 110 students received doctorate degrees across various fields, showcasing the university’s commitment to academic excellence.
The Chief Guest, G. Satheesh Reddy, former Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and former scientific advisor to the Defence Minister, spoke about India’s transformation into a developed nation over the past decade. He noted the increased accessibility of premier educational institutions and the rising global rankings of Indian universities. With approximately 44.5 million students pursuing higher education, India is experiencing a remarkable placement rate of 95%, particularly among engineering graduates.
Governor Anandiben Patel’s address at Bundelkhand University underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of the nation. Her call for innovation and research reflects a broader vision for India’s growth, aligning with the government’s efforts to enhance educational standards and promote cultural heritage.