Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Governor and Vidyapith Chancellor Acharya Devvrat presided over the 72nd convocation ceremony of Gujarat Vidyapith in Ahmedabad on Thursday, 27 August, as 900 students from 18 departments across seven faculties received their degrees. The ceremony marked one of the institution's most significant annual milestones, drawing public representatives, university officials, and social and political leaders.

Graduate Breakdown

Of the 900 graduates, 441 were women and 459 were men. The cohort comprised 184 undergraduate students, 400 postgraduate students, 232 students from postgraduate programmes, 21 postgraduate diploma holders, and 63 MPhil/PhD scholars. Eleven students were additionally honoured with the Kuladhipati Mandir Chandrak and Dhwaj Chandrak for achievements in Gandhian values, social service, research, and co-curricular activities.

What Amit Shah Said

Addressing the gathering, Shah recalled a personal connection with the institution, noting that he had spent considerable hours studying in the Gujarat Vidyapith library. He described the campus as a place that had contributed both to India's freedom struggle and to the development of a national education model.

'Gandhi's life message was relevant yesterday, is relevant today and will remain eternal in the future,' Shah said. He argued that khadi represents more than clothing or economic activity — it embodies 'concern for the last person in society.' Shah also underscored that the National Education Policy-2020 places the mother tongue, skills, and the Indian knowledge tradition at its core. He urged graduates to align their goals with the welfare of low-income communities and contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047.

Governor Acharya Devvrat's Address

Governor Acharya Devvrat, in his convocation address, framed the occasion as 'not merely a celebration of receiving a degree, but a moment to accept one's responsibility towards society after education.' Citing the Taittiriya Upanishad, he stressed family and social responsibility, urging students to respect parents and teachers and share their knowledge with those in need. He also called on graduates to critically evaluate information on social media and distinguish truth from falsehood, while carrying forward Gandhian values in building a developed India.

What the Institution Offers

Vice-Chancellor Dr Harshad Patel noted that Gujarat Vidyapith provides students with academic education alongside practical training in cleanliness, spinning, khadi, community living, and social service. He added that students can learn up to 22 languages and receive training in AI skills and the Indian Knowledge System — a combination that reflects the institution's blend of Gandhian philosophy and contemporary relevance.

Founded on Gandhian principles, Gujarat Vidyapith has historically occupied a distinct space in India's higher education landscape, emphasising values-based learning alongside formal academics. The institution's convocation ceremonies have traditionally drawn senior political and administrative figures, reflecting its continued standing in public life. With this year's ceremony, the Vidyapith reinforces its dual identity as both a heritage institution and an evolving academic centre.