- Governor attends the 7th Convocation Ceremony of Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University
- Degrees and diplomas awarded to 24,800 students
Governor Shri Ramen Deka urged the youth to move forward in life by leveraging self-confidence, persistent effort, and their unique talents. Instead of fearing failure, one should understand its causes, learn from mistakes, and try again. Education should be used not only for personal success but also to bring about positive change in society. The Governor was addressing the 7th Convocation Ceremony of Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University, Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh), today. During the event, undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma degrees were conferred upon 24,800 students from the past five years.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao; MLAs Shri Dharamlal Kaushik and Shri Sushant Shukla; Mayor Smt. Pooja Vidhani; Chairman of the Haryana State Higher Education Council, Shri Kailash Chandra Sharma; NAAC Chairman Shri Nageshwar Rao; Vice-Chancellor of the University, Shri Virendra Kumar Saraswat; and Vice-Chancellors from various other universities.
On this occasion, the university’s upgraded official website was launched, and a souvenir titled ‘Abhyudaya’ was unveiled. Additionally, on behalf of the university, bags, sweaters, tiffin boxes, and water bottles were distributed to 311 students from the Eklavya Vidyalaya in Devpahari.
Congratulating the students who received degrees and medals, Governor Shri Deka noted that their achievements are the result of significant contributions from their parents, teachers, and educational institutions. A convocation ceremony serves as an inspiration to move forward in life with renewed energy and a sense of responsibility. Open universities play a vital role in extending education to remote areas and broadening educational opportunities. The internet and digital technology have made access to knowledge easier. Young people should use these resources judiciously to develop their power of thought and creative potential.
The Governor stated that numerous new avenues for employment and livelihood are available today. Young individuals should identify their own interests and capabilities, and move forward with dedicated effort. One must carve out one’s own place in life; rather than imitating or comparing oneself to others, one should have faith in one’s own uniqueness. He also urged parents to support their children in pursuing paths aligned with their individual interests and talents, rather than imposing their own expectations upon them.
Mr. Deka emphasized the importance of inner satisfaction, balance, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. He called for avoiding the excessive use of digital devices and encouraged the utilization of time for meaningful pursuits. The Governor noted that every individual can contribute to societal change through actions such as maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings, planting trees, and nurturing them. He encouraged everyone to engage in endeavors that aim not merely at transactional outcomes, but at fostering positive change.
Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Arun Sao congratulated the students who received degrees and medals, urging them to apply their knowledge and skills toward the betterment of society. Named after the freedom fighter and social reformer Pandit Sundarlal Sharma, this university is fulfilling the aspirations of those who are unable to pursue regular, full-time education due to professional commitments or other circumstances.
He congratulated the university on receiving an ‘A+’ grade from NAAC, highlighting its significant role in advancing the National Education Policy and expanding access to education.
Mr. Kailash Chandra Sharma, Chairman of the Haryana State Higher Education Council, delivered the convocation address. The ceremony was also addressed by NAAC Chairman Mr. Nageshwar Rao.
In his welcome address, Vice-Chancellor Mr. Virendra Kumar Saraswat outlined the university’s achievements. The event was attended by members of the university’s Executive Council, various officials, administrative staff, faculty members, and a large number of students, parents, and distinguished citizens.