Rono Hills, Feb 4: The 42nd Foundation day of Rajiv Gandhi University was celebrated with enthusiasm and all round activities at RGU Campus, commemorating the laying of foundation stone of the university on 4th February, 1984 by the then Prime Minister of India. The formal function commenced with inauguration of exhibition stalls by local entrepreneurs and from various Departments of the university showcasing their products. The event was inaugurated by Minister of Education, Passang Dorjee Sona who attended the function as Chief Guest. S. Regunathan, former Vice Chancellor of the University was present as the guest of honour and delivered the 42nd foundation day lecture. 
Education Minister Passang Dorjee Sona in his address congratulated the university for an all-round development and carving a niche for itself at national and international platforms. In his speech he highlighted that the state should have a holistic approach towards education, mentioning that in the education field everyone is a stakeholder and has to work accordingly to see the changes they want. 
The Minister stated that through his inspection tours across the nook and corner of the state, he has understood that the foundation of the workforce or the students in senior secondary or in colleges is weak, therefore the root needs to be treated first, and the department will focus on improving and strengthening the primary education on priority therefore. The minister urged the youth especially those in universityto be responsible and visionary in their responses especially on social media. He emphasised that the teachers in government schools are recruited through competitions, yet the quality of education remains low in government schools as compared to private schools. It was also highlighted by the learned minister that they are focusing on quality over quantity and the people of the state should allow them little time to improve and make the public education system in the state among the best in the country.
Addressing the gathering of faculties, staff, students and community members, Regunathan, who visited the campus after 33 years congratulated and expressed his experiences during his time in the university. He praised the university which has grown  from strength to strength with new departments, courses, institutes and other infrastructural developments. He acknowledged the role of RGU in development of nearby localities especially the transformative development of Doimukh area. It was also emphasised by the foundation day speaker that the concrete jungles should not replace traditional bamboo homes which has been a characteristic feature of the state. It was further highlighted that the students and scholars should always remain connected to their roots and culture for their relevance lies in returning the fruits of education back to society. He also stressed on realising and harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence so that students can cope with the changing scenario. 
Prof. S.K. Nayak, Vice Chancellor (acting) of the university in his speech shared that during the time of independence the state had only two schools and now the state has schools in every village; the state has now private colleges, private law colleges, technical institutes of repute and we are witnessing a rejuvenated focus on education in the state.  The gross enrolment ratio of the state is 30% which is above the national average. It was resolved that with perseverance and a research oriented positive outlook, RGU would further advance towards academic excellence.
Dr. N. T. Rikam, Registrar of the university delivered the welcome speech during which he also shared the evolutionary journey of the University. It was highlighted that in the beginning, the University had only three departments and 48 students and now the University have over 40 departments and 5374 students enrolled. He also applauded that the university has been meticulously maintaining the academic calendar with the best practice of organising convocation on fixed date i.e. 30th November each year. He also highlighted a significant achievement of the university which is A accreditation by NAAC in 2024.   He also acknowledged the vital role of teachers, students, staff, alumni and community members in building and shaping the Rajiv Gandhi University where it stands today. Prof. Otem Padung, the Finance Officer and Chairman of the organising committee proposed the vote of thanks to all the guests and participants.
As a mark of celebration the university also organised a photography and essay competition for the students and employees.
The university also honoured outgoing teachers, officers and staff for the preceding year.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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