Hanumakonda: Governor Jishnu Dev Varma praised India’s youth for their readiness in research and innovation at Kakatiya University’s 23rd convocation. He awarded PhD degrees and gold medals to high-achieving students.
Varma encouraged students not to stay confined to labs but to contribute to society. He highlighted Kakatiya University’s role as a leading educational center in north Telangana. The university’s achievements include an NAAC A+ grade, a 151–200 NIRF ranking, third in the UI Green Metric ranking, and 84th nationally for its pharmacy college. These successes, he said, are due to the dedication of the faculty and students, aligning with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of holistic education.
The Governor commended the university’s new courses in AI, machine learning, cyber security, data science, and nutrition science, reflecting NEP-2020. He quoted Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, saying a convocation is the start of a new journey. Varma emphasized the importance of 21st-century skills like critical thinking and communication, urging students to face challenges with bravery and empathy.
Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy, director of the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, stressed gratitude towards those who support students’ success. He assured that rural backgrounds or studying in Telugu medium shouldn’t limit one’s aspirations. He highlighted the importance of applying knowledge effectively, sharing his personal success as evidence.
Reddy mentioned government initiatives like Skill India, PMKVY, Startup India, Digital India, and the Atal Innovation Mission for youth empowerment. KU V-C Prof. K Pratap Reddy celebrated the convocation coinciding with the university’s golden jubilee. He noted a Rs144 crore block grant and an additional Rs50 crore for infrastructure improvements. Infosys donated 300 computers as part of its CSR efforts. Plans include a new academic complex, a PV Narasimha Rao Research and Knowledge Centre, a large girls’ hostel, and a centenary block. New courses in AI, data science, and public health were announced. In total, 446 gold medals were awarded, and 374 PhD degrees were conferred. Before the event, the Governor received a warm welcome from university officials and participated in a formal procession with a police band.
