Knowledge must serve humanity, says President at NU convocation

Biharsharif: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said knowledge must remain dedicated to the service of humanity.

Addressing the second convocation ceremony of Nalanda University at Rajgir, Murmu said, “Knowledge will continue to flourish, dialogue will endure and education will remain dedicated to the service of humanity.”

Congratulating the graduating students, Murmu said the batch included scholars from more than 30 countries, reflecting the university’s strong international character. She said it was encouraging that Nalanda University was once again attracting students from across the world, signalling its emergence as a distinguished centre of knowledge and education.

During the ceremony, the President felicitated 476 graduating students, including postgraduate and doctoral scholars, and also presented gold medals to meritorious students for their outstanding academic achievements.

Expressing confidence in the university’s future, Murmu said the institution had the potential to emerge as a leading academic centre in Asia and globally, recognised not only for academic excellence but also for its core values. She also appreciated the university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, international collaboration and engagement with local communities.

Highlighting the importance of community engagement, the President praised the university’s “Sahbhagita Samvad” initiative aimed at connecting with local communities and traditional knowledge systems. She noted that universities must remain closely connected with their surrounding environment so that their progress benefits the local society as well.

Bihar governor Syed Ata Hasnain described Nalanda as a symbol of continuity and renewal that links the wisdom of the past with the aspirations of the present.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar highlighted the university’s unique international character, saying that in the era of globalisation its role had become even more significant. As India moves towards the vision of a “Viksit Bharat”, Jaishankar said future generations must remain closely connected with global developments. He added that international students graduating from Nalanda would serve as ambassadors of India in their respective countries.

Bihar rural development and transport minister Shravan Kumar also spoke on the occasion, highlighting Nalanda’s historic importance as an institution dedicated not merely to awarding degrees but to nurturing character and intellect.

Vice-chancellor Sachin Chaturvedi welcomed the dignitaries and presented the university’s progress report, outlining initiatives such as the LEAP (Learn, Earn and Pioneer) programme and other academic and community engagement efforts.

During her visit, the President inaugurated the newly built 2,000-seat state-of-the-art auditorium “Vishwamitralaya”, visited the Sahbhagita exhibition and interacted with members of the local community.

The university also expressed gratitude to the Archaeological Survey of India for preparing a replica of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, which was presented to the President as a commemorative memento.

The second convocation celebrated Nalanda University’s commitment to blending tradition with modernity and preparing responsible global leaders for the future.
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