India is presently in a challenging phase of its socio-economic transition and at the cusp of becoming a great economic power, in the middle of global challenges that are complex as well as unpredictable, Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena said here on Wednesday.
Making these assertions on the occasion of 12the convocation of Dr B R Ambedkar University (AUD), he said Indian expertise and talent has much demand worldwide. The prospects in a liberal economic environment are immense. Yet, to take advantage of the unfolding opportunities in a globalized market, we have to galvanize our demographic strength.
Saxena said our demographic dividend of youth - 600 million people in the age group of 25 years and below, has to be converted into an asset that propels our surge for development. For this to happen, we have to undertake skilling and capacity building amongst our youth in a mission mode. Institutions and Universities, undoubtedly, have to take the lead in shaping this demographic dividend. This stupendous task can only be accomplished when public institutions, undergo a paradigm shift and enter into collaborated partnerships with all stakeholders, that includes industry, civil society and varied state and central agencies, he said.
Over the past 15 years, AUD has registered a remarkable trajectory of growth, both in terms of quality and the quantity. It has established multiple robust institutional pillars and mechanisms, that work cohesively to achieve the dual objectives of delivering, high-quality education, while upholding principles of equity and social justice, the LG said.
Despite having, much older, established and reputed institutions of higher education, as its peers in Delhi, AUD has set its own benchmark of excellence in the fields of social sciences and humanities. In fact, the University is now known for its academic excellence, creative pedagogy and innovative teaching. It has a learning ecosystem that promotes knowledge creation, not just for the benefit of the individual seekers but also keeping in focus, its social relevance, Saxena said.
For graduates to compete in a global economy, they will have to be empowered with quality education by our institutions. For this, our institutions should work relentlessly to achieve excellence, he said adding models of imparting education have to be in sync with the latest trends, technology and also the evolving profile of the students.
Delhi Higher Education Minister Atishi was also present on the occasion, honored the graduating students by awarding them degrees. Addressing Addressing the students, she expressed gratitude that, unlike many others, they had the opportunity to study in a good institution. She stated that Ambedkar University is renowned not only in Delhi but throughout India as a liberal arts university. She mentioned that liberal arts are often viewed with a critical perspective in our society. This year the university awarded a total of 1095 degrees. These include 33 PhD degrees, 13 MPhil degrees, 602 postgraduate degrees, 442 graduate degrees, and 5 diplomas.
