Cotton University celebrates 3rd convocation: Governor urges students to drive ‘Viksit Bharat’

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 6, 2025

Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Wednesday emphasized the role of young minds in shaping India’s future, urging graduates to embrace innovation, research, and emerging technologies while preserving the nation’s cultural heritage. Addressing the 3rd convocation of Cotton University, the Governor called upon students to become the torchbearers of “Viksit Bharat”, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant and developed India.

Speaking to the 3,129 students who received degrees and gold medals, Acharya described them as “Amrit Santan” (children of India’s golden era) and encouraged them to push the boundaries of knowledge and technology. He stressed that the youth must equip themselves with cutting-edge skills, innovation, and research expertise to accelerate India’s global transformation.

He also reminded them of their responsibility to uphold India’s cultural and civilizational values, stating, “In the coming times, it is you who will shoulder the responsibility of the country.”

Drawing inspiration from Assam’s spiritual and cultural luminaries, Sankardeva and Madhavdeva, the Governor urged students to follow their principles while also embracing the philosophies of Swami Vivekananda. He linked their role to major national missions like “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” and “Swasth Bharat,” which he described as pillars of good governance and national progress.

Governor Acharya stressed the need for universities like Cotton University to prioritize research, innovation, and employment-driven education, with a sharp focus on emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). He lauded the university’s recent ‘A’ grade accreditation from NAAC, commending its expansion into climate science, performing arts, and coaching programs for NET and JRF aspirants.

During the ceremony, the honorary D.Litt. degree was conferred upon renowned journalist Kanak Sen Deka for his remarkable contributions to journalism. The convocation saw degrees awarded to 3,001 students, including 86 Ph.D. scholars, 1,658 postgraduate students, 1,240 undergraduate students and 17 diploma recipients.

Additionally, 128 meritorious students were awarded Gold Medals for academic excellence.

The convocation was graced by distinguished guests, including Prof. Apoorva Palkar, Vice-Chancellor of Maharashtra State Skills University, Prof. Gautam Barua, former Director of IIT Guwahati, and Prof. Ramesh Chandra Deka, Vice-Chancellor of Cotton University. Other esteemed attendees included Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, and proud families of the graduates.

Encouraging graduates to lead with love, compassion, justice, and selfless service, Governor Acharya urged them to make Assam and India proud. With an emphasis on harnessing knowledge while preserving tradition, the convocation marked a significant milestone in Cotton University’s journey of academic brilliance.