Varanasi, In a significant address during the 103rd convocation at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, highlighted the pivotal role of universities in promoting innovation in teaching, learning, and research. He expressed that the National Education Policy 2020 is a crucial step towards creating a workforce responsive to regional, national, and global needs.
Prof. Sood urged BHU to explore the evolving field of quantum technology, emphasizing its transformative potential. He stressed that India is viewed globally with admiration, with expectations that it will contribute to addressing pressing global issues such as clean energy, water remediation, a clean environment, and sustainable growth.
The convocation ceremony witnessed the presentation of 27 medals to 23 students, including Chancellor Medals, Late Maharaja Vibhuti Narayan Singh Gold Medals, and BHU medals. A total of 14,680 students were conferred degrees, encompassing undergraduates, postgraduates, M. Phil, and Ph.D. degrees.
Prof. Sood emphasized the interconnectedness of education, science, technology, and innovation as key pillars for a strong nation. He called for breaking the silos that have existed among these pillars for too long and advocated for deeper engagement among them.
Addressing the audience, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sudhir Kumar Jain highlighted BHU’s commitment to academic heritage, blending traditional knowledge with modern education. He underscored the institution’s ethos of social responsibility and inclusivity, contributing to the nation’s development through education, research, and community engagement.
Chancellor Justice Giridhar Malaviya presided over the main ceremony, where the graduands pledged their commitments. Registrar Prof. Arun Kumar Singh announced the names of students honored with medals.