Degrees bring responsibility towards society, says CM at AUD convocation

New Delhi: “A classroom teaches you subjects, but a campus teaches you about life and how to face challenges,” Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta said on Thursday while addressing the 14th convocation ceremony of Dr B R Ambedkar University Delhi.Recalling her own days as a student at University of Delhi, Gupta said the memories and friendships formed during college days stay with people throughout their lives. “A convocation ceremony is not only about receiving degrees, but also about embracing new responsibilities towards society and the nation,” she said.The ceremony was also attended by lieutenant governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and education minister Ashish Sood. A total of 1,030 students completed their academic programmes; 331 of them received their undergraduate degrees, 640 postgraduate degrees, 48 PhDs and 11 postgraduate diplomas.Addressing the gathering, Sandhu said, “A degree is not just an academic achievement but a commitment to society.” He noted that the university has built a distinct identity in social sciences, humanities and public engagement. Starting with only a diploma programme in 2008, it has evolved into a multidisciplinary university offering a wide range of academic courses.“Convocation ceremonies mark a defining moment in a student’s life — the completion of one journey and the beginning of another filled with greater responsibilities,” Sandhu said. He also praised the university’s efforts in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP), promoting research, preserving Indian knowledge traditions and strengthening mental health and student support initiatives.Sood said education remains one of the most powerful forces capable of transforming individuals and nations alike. Referring to an era shaped by technology, artificial intelligence and global challenges, he said young people must move beyond degrees and embrace continuous learning, innovation, responsible citizenship, patience, empathy and honesty.“Nation-building is driven by small but meaningful efforts by citizens and the leadership that set an example,” Sood said, urging students to remain lifelong learners and contribute positively to society, Delhi and the country.During the ceremony, the university released its newsletter and research compendium showcasing its academic progress and research contributions. It also completed the process of uploading degree scrolls to DigiLocker as part of its push towards digital governance.Vice-chancellor Anu Singh Lather presented the university’s report for the academic year 2024-25, highlighting key achievements. “72.9% of our PhD graduates are women, and women constitute 62.6% of our UG and PG graduates, highlighting a strong affirmation of our sustained commitment to gender equity in higher education,” she said.