Jalandhar, November 2
Degrees were conferred upon 1072 graduates of DAV University who completed their undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Acharya Devvrat, Governor of Gujarat, who was the chief guest at the occasion conferred the degrees upon the graduates. The convocation was presided over by Dr. Punam Suri, Chancellor of the University.
Dr Punam Suri confering Doctoral Degree (Honoris Causa) upon Acharya Devvrat
The graduates wore traditional jackets and robes while departing from the conventional colonial attire.
A graduate receiving doctoral degree from Acharya Devvrat
The University also bestowed the Honoris Causa degree upon Acharya Devvrat for his remarkable contribution to the field of promoting natural farming and his efforts to preserve the ecology.
The governor of Gujarat was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour by the Punjab Police upon his arrival at the University.
A graduate receiving doctoral degree from Acharya Devvrat
Addressing graduates, Acharya Devvrat emphasized that the DAV movement was initiated by eminent figures and social reformists, including Mahatma Hansraj, Gurudutt Vidyarthi, and Lala Kushal Chand. Over time, it has grown into a formidable institution that has played a pivotal role in spreading education throughout India, much like a mighty tree with far-reaching branches.
Acharya Devvrat and Dr Punam Suri at the convocation
He urged the young graduates to embrace principles of righteousness, maintain unwavering honesty, and uphold truthfulness in their actions, both towards themselves and others. He stressed the importance of returning to society and fulfilling their duties with dedication and integrity. He called upon them to carry out their responsibilities with utmost efficiency and diligence.
Acharya Devvrat expressed his delight that DAV University was taking the lead by embracing the new education policy introduced by the Government of India. He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of elevating educational institutions to surpass international standards. He fondly referred to DAV as his own family and expressed his deep honour of being part of the convocation ceremony.
Acharya Devvrat and Dr Punam Suri lighting the lamp
Acharya Devvrat noted that India stood at the cusp of emerging as one of the world's largest economies, citing examples like the remarkable transformation of train stations and successful space missions as evidence of this progress.
He further highlighted the government's commitment to women's empowerment and commended the remarkable strides that daughters of the nation were making in various fields, excelling in every sphere of life.
Acharya Devvrat receiving the guard of honour
Dr. Punam Suri, the Chancellor of the University, emphasized the importance of students learning from the life of Acharya Devvrat. He pointed out that despite facing numerous obstacles, Acharya Devvrat remained steadfast in pursuit of his goals. Acharya Devvrat's journey from being the principal of Gurukul at Kurukshetra to transforming it into a respected charitable educational institution serves as an inspiring example.
Dr. Suri also drew an analogy to the unwavering Sun, which continues to shine through the unpredictabilities of nature. He encouraged students to choose paths that genuinely excite them, challenging their intellectual capabilities, harnessing their unique talents, and engaging their minds most productively. Dr. Suri emphasized that each student possesses a unique spark within them waiting to be ignited.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Dr. Manoj Kumar, presented the University's report and highlighted that the institution's journey had been marked by transformation, innovation, and unwavering dedication, all under the expert guidance of Dr. Punam Suri. He stressed how the University had adeptly adapted to the evolving world while remaining steadfast in upholding its core values. Dr. Manoj Kumar underscored that the various initiatives undertaken by the University exemplified its strong commitment to delivering exceptional education, pushing the boundaries of knowledge, fostering collaboration, and making a positive impact on the lives of both students and the broader community.
The distinguished guests in attendance at the event comprised several eminent figures, including members of the University's Governing Body Justice (Retd) Pritampal and Justice (Retd) N K Sud, the Executive Director Mr. Rajan Gupta, IPS, Mrs. J. Kackria, Advisor to the University, Registrar Mr. S. K. Arora, as well as regional directors and principals from various DAV institutions.