Sonipat, Aug 1 (NationPress) In a remarkable recognition for O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), five Governors attended the 14th Annual Convocation 2025, which took place from July 29 to 30. Their participation, each representing a different state or Union Territory, significantly enhanced the event as JGU celebrated the essence of federalism enshrined in the Constitution of India, which is vital for our democracy.

The 14th Convocation Ceremony of JGU saw the graduation of over 4,400 students from all 12 Schools and Institutes of the university.

Among the esteemed guests were Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice (Retd.) S. Abdul Nazeer, and Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla.

Various distinguished leaders also graced the ceremony, including:

Justice Gita Mittal, Chairperson, Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) & Former Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu and Kashmir; Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson, Competition Commission of India; R. Venkataramani, Attorney General for India; Wilima Wadhwa, Director, ASER Centre, Pratham Education Foundation; Ina Krisnamurthi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Indonesia to India; and Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of Denmark to India and Non-Resident Ambassador (Designate) to Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the Maldives.

Naveen Jindal, Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, expressed, "Having five Governors preside over our Convocation is a momentous acknowledgment of JGU's journey, values, and aspirations. I am profoundly grateful to the Chief Guests and Guests of Honour for joining us on this significant occasion. Your involvement serves as a testament to your dedication to higher education."

Chancellor Jindal reminded the graduates of the unique opportunities presented by technology and global dynamics, stating, "Your journey and ambitions should be exceptional."

He added, "Degrees and qualifications may open doors, but it is your integrity, compassion, and collaboration that will influence your success in life. Education is not merely a vehicle for personal advancement; it is the bedrock of a nation's success. While we exist in a world of heightened visibility, the most profound acts of leadership often occur in silence."

Professor C. Raj Kumar, the Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, remarked, "At JGU, we recognize that our efforts in building this institution contribute to addressing broader national challenges. Our commitment to academic freedom and institutional excellence has been fundamental in this mission. Our strategies and policies have evolved to enable JGU students to engage in impactful, interdisciplinary research that addresses national and global issues."

He stated, "JGU has developed into a community with over 16,000 students from 12 Schools, featuring faculty from 51 countries and students from 75 nations. We have partnered with over 550 leading institutions across 80+ countries to enrich the Indian higher education landscape. Our pedagogical approach and research initiatives emphasize promoting interdisciplinary learning through collaborative courses and curricula that support innovative thinking."

The Governors at the convocation were clear about their vision for higher education, its influence, and the responsibilities of the new leaders graduating from JGU.

Vinai Kumar Saxena highlighted how the Delhi-NCR region has become the intellectual hub of India, hosting globally recognized universities and higher education institutions, including JGU.

Hari Babu Kambhampati stated, "India stands at a pivotal moment today. We are advancing rapidly in science, technology, infrastructure, health, and education. However, our strength lies not only in material progress but also in our moral foundations of truth, compassion, and tolerance. O.P. Jindal Global University embodies these principles, nurturing professionals equipped with knowledge, ambition, wisdom, and empathy."

Arif Mohammed Khan underscored the fundamental values of Indian culture, particularly respect for elders and the ideals of public service and the inherent dignity of every individual.

He stated, "Public service is a form of worship that fosters personal growth, which is reward enough for the selfless worker. We need to understand why Indian tradition values public service and the cultural significance it holds."

S. Abdul Nazeer expressed, "Education is not just a means to employment; it is the bedrock of nation-building. The Convocation signifies not the conclusion of your academic journey but the start of a new chapter, where you are called to showcase your skills and contribute positively to society. The education received here is rooted in Indian values, driven by academic excellence and a commitment to innovation."

Shiv Pratap Shukla remarked that the convocation signifies the end of formal education yet marks the beginning of a student’s professional path.

"I also congratulate the families of the graduates for their support and dedication. This event celebrates the transformative power of education," he added.

The Guests of Honour, which included diplomats, senior legal professionals, and public servants, commended the achievements of O.P. Jindal Global University and its rankings attained in a short span.

Justice Gita Mittal praised the global collaborations of JGU, stating, "JGU has significantly advanced its pedagogical approach, allowing students to interact with leading academics and gain invaluable insights. JGU is at the forefront of an education system that is locally rooted yet globally engaged."

R. Venkataramani noted, "A university, even in its modern incarnation, is a gurukul that plants the seeds of values and noble thoughts that guide us in innumerable ways." Mrs. Ravneet Kaur added, "As scholars, entrepreneurs, lawyers, policy-makers, journalists, and public leaders, each of you embodies the values of this university. Our nation aims to evolve into Viksit Bharat by 2047, and each of you will play a crucial role in this transformation of the Indian economy."

Wilima Wadhwa, addressing the new graduates, stated, "Three qualities will serve you well in the future: take responsibility for the world you inherit, be adaptable to innovate and grow, and give back, not just because you should, but because you can."

Ina Krisnamurthi remarked, "O.P. Jindal Global University has emerged as a beacon. Its achievements in global rankings, interdisciplinary education, and societal impact reflect its vision. To the Class of 2025, who have endured academic challenges and a global pandemic, I say: you now hold not just degrees, but the confidence and responsibility to shape the world."

Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen emphasized the strong ties between Denmark and India, founded on shared values of democracy, sustainability, and innovation. He stated, "We have collaborated closely on green technology and clean energy to address global challenges. Many talented Indians now study and work in Denmark, enhancing our society, as we hope JGU’s new agreement with the University of Copenhagen will create more opportunities for exchange."

Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik, Registrar of O.P. Jindal Global University, delivered a vote of thanks. Professor (Dr.) Upasana Mahanta, Dean of Admissions and Outreach, and Professor Karan Latayan, Controller of Examinations, introduced the Chief Guest and Guests of Honour to those present at the convocation.