Shimla: Modern universities must prioritise faculty development, encourage innovation and strengthen collaboration to build a globally competitive education system, said Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan on Saturday in Dharamshala. Radhakrishnan, while addressing the 9th convocation of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh, highlighted the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He underlined that the students and youth are among the most important stakeholders in realising this aspiration and called for inclusive development where no state or section of society is left behind. A total of 511 students were awarded degrees in various disciplines during the convocation ceremony. A total of 32 students were awarded gold medals, including 23 meritorious girl students.In his first visit to the hill state after assuming office, the vice president praised Himachal Pradesh as Dev Bhoomi (land of Gods) and Veer Bhoomi (land of the brave), stating that the hill state made significant contributions to the nation’s armed forces and is known for its rich hospitality, culture and traditions. Earlier in the day, he also paid floral tributes at the State War Memorial in Dharamshala. Noting that the majority of medal winners at the convocation were women, he added that it is a strong reflection of growing women’s empowerment and their increasing contribution to the nation’s progress.He also appreciated the Central University’s ‘Community Lab’ initiative and efforts to maintain a drug-free campus, and asked the students to remain vigilant against drug abuse and channel their energy towards constructive nation-building. During the event, governor Kavinder Gupta said that India’s education tradition has always been based on the harmonious integration of knowledge, values and character building.He added that the objective of education in India was never limited to securing employment alone, but rather to the holistic development of an individual. Gupta called upon the degree recipients to utilise their knowledge and talent not only for personal growth but also for the welfare of society and the nation. Others who were present at the event included agriculture minister Chander Kumar, former chief minister and present leader of opposition Jairam Thakur, Hamirpur MP Anurag Singh Thakur, and Kangra MP Dr Rajeev Bhardwaj. MSID: 129574654 413 |


