GANDERBAL: Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath Tuesday emphasized upon the students to continuously push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and strive for excellence as the world is eagerly waiting for their ideas, solutions, and leadership.
“Dreams are the seeds of innovation. It is your responsibility to nurture them, challenge the norm, and create long lasting impact,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath, said while addressing the students on ‘World Students Day’, commemorated every year in the honour of former President of India and Eminent Scientist, Bharat Ratna Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The address was watched live by the students at Tulmulla, Nunar and Arts campus of the university, through webcast.
CUKashmir VC said that Dr. Kalam gave invaluable contributions towards developing India’s civilian space and military missile programmes before becoming the President of India. “He (Dr. Kalam) is popularly known as the Missile Man of India and People’s President of the Nation of largest democracy. He is recognised for authoring 25 inspiring books, an educationist, public speaker, philosopher and renowned thinker,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath added.
Prof. A Ravinder Nath said, the Day intends to recognize the efforts of the students of the world, who are working relentlessly to achieve their career goals. “Students are the building blocks of the future and on them it depends on how the structure of the world will be. They pave the way for tomorrow’s world and we should give them the respect they deserve. It is important to be a good student, but it is priceless and way more important to be a good human being,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath remarked. The Vice-Chancellor emphasized India’s ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the centenary of its independence.
“As we strive towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047, you, the students, are at the forefront of this transformation. Your innovation, leadership, and commitment to progress will be pivotal in realizing this vision,” he stated. “Achieving Viksit Bharat requires sustainable growth. As future leaders, you must take responsibility for addressing challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality, and ensure that development benefits all sections of society,” he further added.
Speaking on the occasion, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool described Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, as a visionary leader and an ardent advocate for youth empowerment. Prof. Shahid added “Today, we honour the legacy of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a leader who championed the power of education and believed deeply in the strength of youth.” He quoted Dr. Kalam, and said, “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”
“As students, you embody this spirit of dreaming and turning those dreams into reality. You are the innovators, the thinkers, the change-makers of tomorrow,” Prof. Shahid added. He further said that “Your (Students’) contributions-whether in research, community service, or creative pursuits-are a testament to the potential that lies within each of you.” He said that CUKashmir is committed to provide students with the tools and support needed to succeed. “But it is your drive, determination, and willingness to learn that will ultimately shape your path.”
Dean Students Welfare, Dr. Irfan Alam, conducted the programme proceedings.