PU produced Prime Ministers, Chief Justices and global leaders: Vice-President

Highlighting the university’s global outlook, Radhakrishnan said that PU’s vision and mission are “forward-looking, globally oriented and internationally relevant”. He added that these aspirations are firmly grounded in the Institutional Development Plan 2025 and the National Education Policy 2020, noting that “it is because of this vision that PU has published 11,000 research papers in the past five years,” contributing to the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 under PM Narendra Modi.

Congratulating students and honourees, he said the convocation marked an important milestone not only for graduates but also for their parents, teachers and friends, stating that “this day belongs to you and to all those who inspired and encouraged you under this institution which shaped you”. He also referred to the conferment of Honoris Causa degrees on distinguished individuals during the ceremony.

Addressing the graduating students, the Vice-President said they were completing their education at a time of unprecedented global change, remarking that “Bharat is no longer only an adopter of technology; we are emerging as creators of technology”.

Emphasising self-reliance, Radhakrishnan called upon students to pursue innovation rooted in Indian knowledge systems, asserting that “true Atmanirbharta comes when our innovation reflects national identity and serves our people.” He also advised graduates to stay away from drugs, be mindful of social media usage, and remember that “your degree is not the end goal but the beginning of new responsibilities,” wishing the batch of 2025 a successful and meaningful future.

Punjab Governor highlights women’s leadership in higher education

The Governor of Punjab and UT Administrator, Gulab Chand Kataria, Saturday presided over and delivered the convocation address at the 73rd Convocation of Panjab University. Medals, prizes and degrees to the PU students passing examinations in 2025 were awarded at the convocation.

During the convocation, Doctor of Science Honoris Causa degrees were conferred upon Prof K N Pathak and Dr Vijay P Bhatkar, while Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel was conferred the Doctor of Laws. The PU Vigyan Ratna Award was presented to Prof Pradeep Thalappil, the PU Khel Ratna Award was conferred upon Sarabjot Singh, and the PU Sahitya Ratna Award was presented to Amarjit Grewal.

Addressing the gathering, Kataria appreciated the achievements of the graduating students and awardees. “The fact that nearly 75 per cent of graduating students today are women is a powerful reflection of women empowerment through education.”

Appreciating Panjab University’s number of achievements in national and international rankings, the Governor said that while the university has a strong national standing, it also has the potential to emerge as a globally leading institution.

Mentioning the illustrious alumni of the university like former Prime Ministers Dr Manmohan Singh and I K Gujral, former President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma, Olympian Neeraj Chopra, cricketer Kapil Dev, Nobel laureate Dr Har Gobind Khorana, actors Anupam Kher and Kirron Kher, and former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, he said their achievements continue to inspire future generations.

Referring to the conferment of 350 PhDs in a span of less than a year, the Governor described the achievement as a testament to the dedication of students, parents and faculty members.

In her address, the PU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Renu Vig, said that Panjab University continues to strengthen its academic and research profile in alignment with national priorities. Highlighting recent achievements, she mentioned 33 patents, major research grants, expansion of national and international collaborations, strong alumni support, and an impressive performance at the Khelo India 2025 events.

The Education Minister of Punjab, Harjot Singh Bains, DUI Prof Yojna Rawat, PU Registrar Prof Y P Verma, along with senior officers of the university, faculty members, students and their family members, were present on the occasion.