Governor Gupta presides over 2nd Convocation of Sardar Patel University
Governor Kavinder Gupta presides over the 2nd Convocation of Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi today. He exhorted the graduating class to transcend individual careers and dedicate their knowledge, innovation and moral sensibility to the collective mission of building a strong, self-reliant India.
The Governor said that the ceremony in the historic town known as ‘Choti Kashi’ was much more than just giving out degrees. He described it as a celebration of knowledge, culture and responsibility.
Referring to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the ‘Iron Man of India’ and the inspiration behind the university’s name, the Governor reminded students that the idea of national unity and integrity is still very important today, just as it was at the time of Independence. He lauded the university for installing a statue of Patel on campus, calling it a symbol of respect and a sign of the institution’s national vision.
He encouraged students to stay committed to Patel’s dream of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, linking the university’s values with the need for unity and pride in the country today.
The Governor also praised SPU Mandi for its progress in a short time. He appreciated its step-by-step introduction of the National Education Policy, the creation of a Bharatiya Gyan Parampara cell, holding its first convocation in traditional Indian dress, and setting up academic committees. He described these as positive and meaningful steps.
He also commended the university’s academic and cultural programmes celebrating Mandi’s 500-year history. He said that this effort of the university showed a strong sense of respect for history and culture.
Speaking about the role of young people, the Governor said this is an important time in India’s development and the like initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India and Viksit Bharat-2047 requires an active participation from the youth besides career success.
He said that in today’s world, knowledge alone is not enough. Innovation, ethics and kindness are also very important. He said students must think and act as responsible citizens.
He urged them to use their education to help weaker sections of society, live drug-free lives, protect the environment and preserve India’s cultural heritage.
He also explained the difference between ‘Dikshaant’ (the start of a new journey) and ‘Shikshaaant’ (the end of education), saying that learning never truly ends and continues throughout life.
The Governor also congratulated all the medal winners, graduates, their families and teachers. He said that the support of parents and mentors plays a key role in every student’s success. He expressed confidence that SPU Mandi will grow into a leading centre of knowledge for both Himachal Pradesh and the whole country.
During the convocation ceremony, degrees were awarded to 575 students from various academic programmes, while 40 students were honoured with gold medals for their outstanding academic performance.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi highlighted the achievements and developmental journey of the university since its establishment in 2022. He said that the university secured research projects worth Rs. 2.30 crore, published more than 60 research papers and obtained approval for two patents. He said that 22 Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) had been signed with various national and international institutions.
Registrar Shashi Pal Negi presented the vote of thanks.
MLA Chander Shekhar, Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorv Devgan, Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar, Assistant Commissioner to Divisional Commissioner Mandi Sunaina Sharma, faculty members, students parents, university staff and other distinguished guests were present on the occasion.
