Soban Singh Jeena University Convocation held
Garhwal Post Bureau
Nainital, 18 Jun: Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd) attended the first convocation ceremony of Soban Singh Jeena University on Thursday and congratulated the graduating students. He described the occasion as a golden chapter in the university’s history and said that the graduating students are the institution’s “foundation pillars”, whose achievements, conduct, and values will inspire future generations.
The Governor noted that Almora is a land rich in cultural, spiritual, and intellectual heritage. Referring to places and traditions associated with Kasar Devi Temple, Golu Devta Temple, Neem Karoli Baba, and Nanda-Sunanda, he said the region has guided the nation for centuries through its spiritual and cultural influence. He paid tribute to the late Soban Singh Jeena, after whom the university is named, and said the institution is setting new benchmarks in education, research, and innovation.
The Governor praised the university’s efforts to implement the principles of the National Education Policy 2020 by promoting traditional knowledge, skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He highlighted initiatives such as the Spiritual Tourism Centre, Happiness Lab, Harela Peeth, and Lakshmi Devi Tamta Centre, stating that they contribute significantly to students’ holistic development. He also appreciated the university’s national and international collaborations, research activities, and patent achievements.
Emphasising the importance of socially relevant research, he said that research should not remain confined to books and laboratories but should help solve real-world problems. He encouraged research focused on mountain agriculture, medicinal plants, water conservation, and other local challenges. He also described the university’s initiatives in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence as timely and forward-looking.
The Governor stated that the daughters of Uttarakhand are excelling in every field and that the large number of female medal recipients at convocation ceremonies is a matter of pride for the state. He stressed that women will play a vital role in building a developed India and also highlighted the achievements of Uttarakhand’s youth in sports and the armed forces.
Addressing the graduates, he said they are not merely witnesses to Viksit Bharat @2047 but active architects of that vision. He urged them to dream big, embrace innovation, and place national interest above all else. According to him, a “Nation First” approach is the foundation of nation-building and should guide every decision.
The Governor further stated that India’s real strength lies in the harmony between its ancient knowledge traditions and modern science. He encouraged young people to take pride in their cultural roots, the Vedas, the Upanishads, and India’s intellectual heritage. He added that technologies such as artificial intelligence should be integrated with human values and ethical principles to achieve their fullest potential.
Highlighting the role of educators, he said teachers are central to nation-building because they shape not only students’ knowledge but also their character and personality. He emphasised that the true purpose of education is fulfilled when it is guided by integrity, compassion, humility, and moral values.
Calling upon the youth of Uttarakhand to connect the energy of the mountains and their natural resources with the state’s development, he encouraged them to become entrepreneurs and job creators rather than job seekers. He pointed to the vast opportunities available in organic farming, medicinal herbs, tourism, and startups, which can also help address migration from hill regions.
The Governor described environmental conservation as both a natural and spiritual responsibility of Uttarakhand. He emphasised the need to protect the Himalayas, rivers, and forests for future generations and urged young people to create a model of sustainable development that balances progress with environmental stewardship.
Concluding his address, he encouraged students to remain lifelong learners, follow the path of truth and righteousness, and dedicate themselves to service of the nation. He expressed confidence that the university’s graduates would bring greater glory to India through their knowledge, values, and patriotism.
The ceremony was attended by Vice-Chancellor Satpal Singh Bisht, faculty members, distinguished guests, parents, and a large number of students.
