Part-1 of 24th Annual Convocation Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi was held on Thursday, 18th July, 2024 at Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam auditorium ‘Jnana Sangama’, VTU, Belagavi to confer degrees of Post-graduation and Research Degrees (Ph.D., M.Sc. (Engg.) by Research and Integrated dual Degrees)
Shri Thawarchand Gehlot Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka and Chancellor of the University presided the convocation. Dr. Govindan Rangarajan, Director, Indian Institue of Science (IISc), Benagluru was the Chief Guest and delivered the Convocation Address.
During Part-1 of 24th Annual Convocation, VTU conferred BE./B.Tech.(B.E.- 51,084, B.Tech.45, B.Plan.-08, B.Arch.- 1138. Ph.D.-339 and 01 M.Sc.(Engg) by Research Degrees have been awarded.
Hon’ble Governor and Chancellor of the University in his presidential remarks he said that Technical educational institutions have a major contribution in the development of Indian economy. Currently our economy is the 5th largest economy in the world. Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot opined that it needs to be further strengthened and active efforts should be made in this regard. Speaking on the recent progress of the country he said, India has made significant progress in the areas of economic development, progress in science and technology, industrialization, reforms in the agricultural sector, education and modernization. At present our country is fast moving towards becoming a developed nation, he called upon us to make active efforts to bring the country to the forefront of the world’s developed nations in the coming years.
Highlighting India’s achievements in the field of science and technology he said that India has also made a new mark in space research, lunar mission, Mars mission and internet technology by achieving amazing achievements in the field of science and technology. Self-reliant India has enhanced its reputation across the world due to advancements in the field of science and technology. He said that the contribution of science and technology is important in achieving the goal of ‘Made in India’ and ‘Make in India’ for a One India, a better India and a developed India, he said.
Technical education is playing an important role in the human resource development of the country by creating skilled human resources, making progress in every field and improving the quality of life of the people. Technology is changing faster than we can imagine. So it is necessary for our researchers, scientists and experts to take precautions in every field and plan accordingly. Today is the age of manufacturing and entrepreneurship and our youth have the capacity and determination to be drivers of performance and improvement in this field. In this regard very heartening to know that, being a technical university VTU is imparting skill based education to all engineering students in this regard As Swami Vivekananda said – “Arise, wake up and do not stop until the goal is achieved”, with this determination our youth will play their vital role in the development of the country.
Chief Guest Dr. Govindan Rangarajan speaking on the occasion, he said that, today’s graduates should utilize their knowledge and skills for the prosperity of the nation. Focusing his speech on how the current technology Artificial Intelligence is affecting life, he said that it is far from the truth that this technology will take away all kinds of jobs, however the primary level and a very common field/technology will be replaced by AI, he said. He also said that the use of this technology develops the rational attitude and thinking power in the young generation, so the young people should undergo reskilling and upskilling frequently so that they can use or apply new technology effectively. Mentioning about too much usage of new technology and social media, he said that, we think only on the “digital platform” whereas in reality everyone has become socially isolated, disconnected physically, mentally and experiencing loneliness, leading to depression among young people. That is why we need to give more importance to physical and emotional relationships and well-being as we can lead a life as a social being.
Speaking on the occasion, Recipient of Honorary Doctor of Science Sadguru Shri Madhusudan Sai, founder of Shri Madhusudan Sai Insitute of Medical Science and Research, Chikkaballapura appreciated the VTU for excellent performance and growth. This VTU is working as a model university for building a noble society by giving the best of the great heritage, he said. He said that such a great legacy should be continued by today’s youth and graduated young people. He said that learning is continuous. Today’s young minds should continue learning throughout their lives and think about solving problems to become problem solvers. Today’s youth should focus on these three aspects “service – society – sanskruti” and engage in social service with elements of our cultural heritage and focus on building a model nation.
Another Recipient of Honorary Doctor of Science BIAL MD Shri Hari K Marar said that today’s youth should invest their time and skills in four important areas for their bright future – education, strengthening of bonds, health and experience.
Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vidyashankar welcomed the gathering and presented the recent achievements of VTU and also introduced The Chief Guest and presented Honorary Doctorate Awardees in front of Chancellor of the VTU.
Prof. B. E. Rangaswamy Registrar, VTU read the names of rank holders and PhD awardees.
Mace Bearer Registrar (evaluation) Prof. T. N. Sreenivasa led the Convocation Procession.
Dean Prof. Sadashive Gowda Presented all rank holders and graduates before the Chancellor of the university.
At this occasion Members of the Executive Council and Academic Senate, Principals of Affiliated Colleges, Parents and Staff of VTU were present.
Hearty congratulations.