Bhubaneswar, September 13, 2025: Emphasising the pivotal role of youth in shaping India’s future, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Saturday called upon graduating students of Sambalpur University to become ethical, socially responsible, and globally competent citizens. He was addressing the University’s 35th Convocation.
“Each one of you carries the torch to drive India forward and realise the dream of a Vikashit Bharat,” the Governor said, noting that today’s accomplishments are built on years of hard work, the guidance of teachers, and the unwavering support of families. He added that convocation day is not merely a ceremony but a milestone marking the beginning of a new journey of responsibility and service.
Reflecting on the University’s legacy since its establishment in 1967, Dr. Kambhampati praised Sambalpur University for nurturing generations of young minds and contributing to social and economic transformation in Western Odisha and beyond. From its serene campus at Jyoti Vihar, the University has consistently combined academic excellence with character building and a spirit of service. In recent years, it has strengthened academics and research, embraced innovation, and upheld its commitment to excellence and social responsibility, he said.
He stressed that education must go beyond academic achievement, remarking, “Knowledge without character cannot build a just and prosperous nation.”
Speaking about reforms in higher education, the Governor said, “The National Education Policy 2020 is a truly transformative framework that aligns India’s education system with global standards while remaining firmly rooted in our cultural ethos. By introducing interdisciplinary programmes, compulsory internships, and courses on entrepreneurship, environmental studies, and disaster management, Sambalpur University is showing how NEP 2020 can be translated into action. These initiatives are equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global landscape.”
The Governor also welcomed Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan, who attended the ceremony as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Pradhan said universities should focus on enhancing the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of Odisha and give due importance to teaching in the mother tongue. He informed that a total of Rs 157 crore has been sanctioned under various schemes for infrastructure and research development at Sambalpur University, reflecting the commitment to strengthening higher education in the state.
Among those present were Rabi Narayan Naik, Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Drinking Water; Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Higher Education; and Sampad Chandra Swain, Minister for Industries, Skill Development, and Technical Education, along with Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra and Vice-Chancellor Bidhu Bhushan Mishra.