The 29th convocation ceremony of Vikram University, Ujjain, was held on Sunday in the esteemed presence of Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. The event, hosted at the Golden Jubilee Auditorium, saw the conferral of honorary D.Litt. degrees upon Chief Minister Yadav and Heartfulness Institute founder Kamlesh Patel. Additionally, degrees were awarded to 70 students, 99 received medals, and 2 researchers were conferred with D.Litt. degrees.
Governor Patel expressed his delight in participating in the convocation ceremony of Vikram University. Congratulating all the students receiving their degrees, he wished them a bright and successful future. He emphasized that a convocation ceremony is, in essence, a pledge of service and that success in life requires strict discipline.
Highlighting Ujjain's unique identity on India's map in education, religion, literature, culture, science, and trade, the Governor recalled the legendary story of Lord Krishna, who came to this sacred land to receive education. He noted that the ancient Gurukul of Maharishi Sandipani continues to be a center of faith, where the Jagadguru himself received knowledge. He further mentioned that today, several new fields of science and knowledge are emerging, expanding the horizons of higher education alongside traditional disciplines. Indian students have showcased their exceptional talent and skills on the global stage.
Governor Patel urged the graduating students to always respect their parents and teachers. He emphasized that parents make sacrifices to provide for their children’s education and upbringing, and thus, serving them is the first step toward serving society and the nation. He stressed that being a responsible citizen contributes to the nation's progress.
Yadav remarked that this day holds immense significance for all. Ujjain, one of the seven holiest cities in India, has been revered across ages. He pointed out that the day coincides with Indian New Year celebrations, including Gudi Padwa and Cheti Chand, and is also observed as Ujjain’s Pride Day. He announced that Vikram University will henceforth be known as Samrat Vikramaditya University. Additionally, a grand auditorium will soon be constructed in the Madhav Science College campus.
Congratulating the students, Yadav encouraged them to utilize their talents to fulfill noble objectives, engage in social service, and contribute to the nation. He expressed hope that research scholars would bring laurels to their city, state, and country on the global stage.
The Chief Minister also praised the students' dedication and hard work, which not only brought them academic excellence but also a sense of responsibility. He hoped they would serve the country and bring global recognition to their university, state, and nation. He further noted that today's convocation is historically significant as it is the first time that the Governor, Chief Minister, Higher Education Minister, a Padma Bhushan awardee, Members of Parliament, and MLAs have all attended the event together.
Yadav remarked that the governance and welfare aspects of Samrat Vikramaditya’s rule are reflected in the governance model of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He reminisced about a time when convocations were not a tradition at universities, resulting in many students receiving their degrees without formal ceremonies. He lauded Governor Patel for institutionalizing mandatory convocation ceremonies across universities.
The Chief Minister highlighted various initiatives in Ujjain for the New Year celebrations, including the inauguration of the Samrat Vikramaditya Heritage Hotel near Mahakal Lok, which will provide accommodation and food facilities for devotees visiting the Mahakal Temple.
