Ahmedabad, Nov 26 (NationPress) - An academic milestone was marked in Gandhinagar as the Gujarat Biotechnology University (GBU) celebrated its second convocation ceremony, presided over by Science and Technology Minister Arjun Modhwadia.

A total of 94 MSc Biotechnology graduates were awarded their degrees, with five students recognized with gold medals for their outstanding academic performance.

In his address, Minister Modhwadia emphasized the increasing importance of biotechnology in providing solutions for the welfare of all living beings. “Patents and research that prioritize the welfare of life and humanity are essential,” he stated. “True innovation must aim at enhancing life; only then does education achieve its full significance.”

He noted that GBU, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is not just strengthening biotechnology as a sector but is establishing it as a foundational element in India’s ambitions for Viksit Bharat @2047.

“Every new institution bears the weight of expectations and comparisons. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, GBU has successfully navigated these challenges and set new standards in quality and innovation,” he added.

Minister Modhwadia encouraged students to extend their scientific knowledge beyond the laboratory and impact real-world challenges faced by coastal areas, agricultural lands, rural communities, and industries.

He proposed the establishment of four satellite centers focusing on coastal, agro-food, industrial, and dryland biotechnology.

GBU Chairperson Dilip Shanghvi characterized the university as a “bold and visionary academic initiative grounded in research, industry relevance, and steadfast values.”

In just three years, GBU has secured nearly 70 external research grants, demonstrating its rising stature in the scientific community, he noted.

In advising students, he remarked, “Results may take time; don’t lose your determination. Maintain your values, honesty, and scientific integrity.”

Science and Technology Secretary P. Bharathi highlighted the university's alignment with the state's scientific vision, noting that GBU has admitted the highest number of GAT-B qualifiers from a single campus in India. This diverse student population and globally experienced faculty enhance its academic ecosystem.

“Science that safeguards the health of the motherland is the truest form of worship,” she emphasized.

GBU Director Dr. Subir Majumdar stated that the university has quickly established itself as a premier center for biotechnology education and research. With over 70 competitive projects worth nearly Rs 40 crore and collaborations with global institutions, including the University of Edinburgh, GBU is preparing a highly skilled workforce for the future.

He praised students for their national fellowships, awards, and strong placements, reaffirming the university’s commitment to promoting translational research and industry partnerships as part of the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.

Industry representative Sudhir Vaid highlighted biotechnology's transformative potential in areas such as food security, materials, energy, and healthcare. “You arrived here with questions; today, you leave with the ability to ask more insightful ones,” he told the students, adding that values can often outweigh scientific tools.

Degrees were awarded to 20 students in Medical Biotechnology, 20 in Industrial Biotechnology, 16 in Plant Biotechnology, 19 in Animal Biotechnology, and 19 in Environmental Biotechnology.