PASIGHAT, Oct 30: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General (Retd.) K.T. Parnaik called upon Arunachal Pradesh University to align its academic programs with industry and public sector needs to prepare graduates who are "work-ready and world-ready." He was addressing the first convocation ceremony of the university held here on Thursday.
The Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the University, conferred degrees to the inaugural batch of 2023-25. A total of 71 students graduated in five PG courses.
The Governor lauded the fact that over 66% of the successful candidates were women, calling it a sign of women's empowerment and social progress in the state. "Educate a woman, and she educates the whole family, in fact, the whole state," he said.
Lemsang Bangyang from the Department of Education received the Chancellor's Gold Medal for securing the highest CGPA of 9.30. The Vice Chancellor's Gold Medals were awarded to Anisha Kri, Mumne Tayeng, Lemsang Bangyang, Saniya Mossang and Ralbom Ripuk.
The Governor suggested introducing Tribal Studies as a specialized cultural centre and establishing a community radio station similar to Rajiv Gandhi University's to help the institution reach homes and hearts across the state.
He emphasized that as the state's first university, APU has a special responsibility to reflect the true potential and challenges of Arunachal Pradesh. "The courses, the syllabi and academic pursuits must therefore reflect the true potential and challenges of Arunachal Pradesh itself. Our geography, our local languages and our unique local governance must all find their rightful place in the classrooms," he said.
The Governor called for research and innovation to be the soul of the university.
He said students and teachers should not merely absorb information but create new knowledge that uplifts lives, inspires progress and solves real problems on the ground. "Every program you design must encourage curiosity, critical thinking and above all the courage to ask questions that lead to discovery and transformation," he added.
Addressing the graduating students, the Governor said they are the pioneering batch and will remain proud alumni of APU forever. "You are the pride of Arunachal and our great nation. The world beyond these walls eagerly awaits your contribution, your innovative ideas, your blessed compassion and your inborn courage to make a difference wherever you go," he said.
He told the graduates that as the first batch of APU, they bear a responsibility of shaping the future of the state and contributing to the nation. He urged them to use their full potential and resolve to take the state forward while remaining connected with their values and cultures.
The Governor urged the graduates to let transparency guide their actions, integrity shape their decisions and professionalism reflect in all they do. "Let your heart remain honest, your conduct upright and your attitude anchored in probity and righteousness," he said. He reminded them that their success has contributions from people around them, so they must always serve and live up to their expectations.
He congratulated the gold medallists, saying they have created a benchmark in academic excellence and their achievements bring honor not only to themselves but also to their teachers, parents and the university.
He also congratulated Vice Chancellor Prof. Tomo Riba and the university fraternity for successfully completing the first academic year, a milestone that marks the foundation of an academic legacy in the state.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Tomo Riba highlighted the university's progress, future plans and ongoing challenges.
He said the university now has 11 departments with five departments offering PhD programs as well.
He said the university has affiliated two government colleges at Piyong and Kanubari and adopted three Anganwadi Centres and five TB patients under its community outreach initiatives.
The Vice Chancellor announced plans to add nine new departments to strengthen the academic infrastructure.
He emphasized the university's commitment to expanding its reach and impact in the state through various developmental and community engagement programs.
Prof. Riba expressed confidence that the institution would continue to grow and serve as a beacon of quality education in Arunachal Pradesh.
Registrar Narmi Darang, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the Governor for gracing the occasion and conferring degrees upon the first batch of graduates. He thanked all the dignitaries, faculty members, staff and parents for their unwavering support in making the historic convocation a success.
He said the day marks the beginning of a new chapter in the university's journey and hoped that the graduating students would carry forward the legacy of excellence and service. The Registrar also acknowledged the collective efforts of the university community in building the institution from the ground up.
The ceremony was attended by Pasighat MLA Tapi Darang, Education Commissioner Amjad Tak, the Deputy Commissioner and SP of East Siang, Heads of Departments of various district departments, EC and AC Members, along with senior officers from the BRO and Military Camp Sigar. Leaders from AAPSU, ADISU, Adi Baane Kebang, and local panchayat and gaon burahs also attended the convocation.

---

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

<< Back to News List