Delhi Lieutenant Governor T.S. Sandhu on Saturday, 3 May 2025, revisited his alma mater St. Stephen's College of Delhi University, walking the familiar corridors, interacting with faculty, viewing archive photographs, and addressing graduating students at the institution's Annual Convocation. The visit was both personal and ceremonial for Sandhu, who earned his B.A. in History from St. Stephen's in 1982.

Sandhu's Message to the Class of 2026

Addressing the Class of 2026, Sandhu urged the graduating students to pursue excellence with humility and to serve the nation with both competence and character. "This occasion marks an important transition in the lives of the graduating class. It is a moment that brings together reflection, anticipation, and a quiet recognition of the journey that has brought you here," he said in his convocation address.

He spoke warmly of the institution's enduring influence. "St. Stephen's College is also my alma mater, and I have spent some of the most meaningful and formative moments of my life here. The memories of those years — of conversations, classrooms, debates, and friendships — remain with me even today," he said.

Two Pillars Sandhu Credits to St. Stephen's

Sandhu identified two defining qualities that St. Stephen's instilled in him. The first was intellectual curiosity — the encouragement not merely to learn, but to question, examine assumptions, and engage critically with ideas, even when they challenge one's own beliefs. The second was a sense of balance between excellence and humility, with achievement framed not as an end in itself but as a responsibility.

"The world you are entering will present opportunities, but also complexities. How you navigate them will depend not only on your knowledge, but on your judgment and values," he told the graduating class.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Beyond the formal address, Sandhu took time to walk through the college's corridors, interact with faculty members, and view archival photographs — a rare personal moment for a sitting Lieutenant Governor. He later shared his experience on X (formerly Twitter), writing: "Delighted to visit my alma mater, St. Stephen's College, for the Annual Dismissal Service. Walking through its familiar corridors brought back memories of enriching conversations, engaging classrooms, spirited debates, and lifelong friendships."

He added: "Addressing the Class of 2026, I encouraged them to pursue excellence with humility and to serve the nation with both competence and character. Heartiest congratulations to the graduating class. May you carry forward the rich legacy, intellect, and unique spirit of the College as you embark on your journeys ahead."

Sandhu's Academic and Professional Journey

After completing his B.A. in History from St. Stephen's in 1982, Sandhu went on to pursue an M.A. in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). He subsequently joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1988, going on to serve in senior diplomatic and administrative roles before being appointed Delhi Lieutenant Governor. As the Class of 2026 steps out into the world, Sandhu's visit serves as a reminder that the corridors of St. Stephen's have long shaped some of India's most prominent public figures — and that the institution's legacy of intellect and service continues to find expression in the nation's highest offices.