Huge Demand For Science Graduates In Industries: NU VC

Nagpur: Challenging the long-standing perception that core science graduates face limited job opportunities, Nagpur University vice-chancellor Manali Kshirsagar asserted that industries are actually struggling to find skilled professionals with strong scientific backgrounds. She was speaking at the second convocation ceremony of the Institute of Science, Nagpur, where more than 200 students were conferred with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.Addressing the students, Kshirsagar said that during her interactions with industry representatives, she consistently hears about the shortage of candidates trained in core scientific disciplines. "Nowadays, scientists are becoming rare in these fields. Admissions to core science faculties are decreasing every year, but the belief that there are no jobs is a myth," she said.She noted that while many students today gravitate toward engineering and medical streams, industries are seeking individuals with deep foundational knowledge in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and life sciences."There is always room at the top for dedicated science graduates. You are testament to the fact that choosing science is not a limitation but an opportunity," she told the gathering, drawing applause from students and faculty members.Calling the convocation a milestone in the lives of the graduates, she highlighted the rich legacy of the Institute of Science. Established in 1906, the institute predates Nagpur University and is regarded as the first college in Nagpur. Nagpur University, Kshirsagar noted, was established later in the 1920s. "You are fortunate to begin your professional journeys from an institution with such a distinguished history. This is my first visit here, and I am impressed by the positive academic environment," she said. The Institute of Science got autonomous status just two years ago.Kishor Patil, director of the institute, urged students to align their ambitions with nation-building and self-improvement through research and innovation. "Do not get distracted. Stay true to yourselves and implement your knowledge in real life," he advised, encouraging graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.A total of 247 students graduated at the convocation, including 110 BSc students and 137 postgraduate (advanced) students. Among them, 11 students secured merit positions in BSc, while 29 students achieved merit in the postgraduate (advanced) category.Under the Sukhdevji Maharaj Scholarship (2024), students securing first rank in Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Statistics and Mathematics across all six semesters of BSc were awarded a cash prize of ₹1.4 lakh each along with a gold medal.Meanwhile, the Shankar Pandit Scholarship (2024 and 2025) recognised students from economically weaker sections who passed all four semesters of MSc Physics and Mathematics with a minimum of 65% aggregate. The award carries a cash prize of ₹50,000.