Pimpri/Pune, 13th April 2024: Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune (Deemed to be University), Pimpri, Pune organized its 15th Convocation on April 13, 2024, at its Vidyapeeth auditorium at 11.30 am. Former President of India, Hon’ble Shri Ram Nath Kovind was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The other guests present on the occasion were Shri. Somanath S., Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Bengaluru; Dr. S B Mujumdar, Founder & President, Symbiosis, Pune and Chancellor of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune; Hon’ble Dr. P D Patil, Chancellor; Hon’ble Dr. Mrs. Bhagyashree P. Patil, Pro-Chancellor; Hon’ble Dr. N. J. Pawar, Vice-Chancellor; Hon’ble Dr. Mrs. Smita Jadhav, Secretary & Pro Vice-Chancellor; Hon’ble Dr. Somnath P Patil, Trustee & Secretary; Hon’ble Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune and a host of luminaries from varied fields.
The Convocation address was delivered by the Hon’ble Former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind. In his speech, he said “Convocation is a milestone. However, it is not the end of education, but it is a continuous process.” He spoke about the importance of the value-based Indian education that is steeped in its culture, history and traditions and is invaluable to the teaching process in Indian universities. Higher education molds the torchbearers of tomorrow. He emphasized that students besides academics should develop empathy, humility, and honesty for the betterment of society and the country. He also said that innovation is the key to success. We should visualize the future requirements, and change the curriculum as per the advancements. He concluded his speech by urging students to think creatively, to find solutions to problems, and to dream big and paint their life canvas with colorful hues. He spoke about the possibility of attaining “Viksit Bharat” by 2047 as our country as a whole is advancing in technology and other segments and is creating a knowledge pool for the entire world.
The programme commenced with ‘Sharada Stavan’ (a short prayer) and Vidyapeeth geet. It was preceded by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Hon’ble Former President of India, Ram Nath Kovind and the Convocation was declared open. The Vice-Chancellor presented the Vidyapeeth report. In his report, he mentioned that DPU has been accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) (3 cycle) with an ‘A++’ Grade with a CGPA of 3.64 on a four-point scale. In all India NIRF ranking 2023, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune (Deemed to be University) has secured the 15th rank in the Medical category, 3rd rank in the Dental Category, and 46th rank in the University category. DPU has been declared a Category 1 University by UGC under the Graded Autonomy Regulations, 2018.
After his speech, the dignitaries were felicitated by Dr. P. D Patil, Chancellor of the Vidyapeeth. It was followed by the presentation of degrees and diplomas of the 8 Institutions/ Colleges under the Vidyapeeth, to the successful candidates by the Deans of the respective streams. Around 21 graduates who have achieved excellence in various examinations of the University were honored with gold medals. Degrees were awarded to 5,326 graduates in various disciplines, including 30 – Ph.D.s, 853 graduates, 4,433 Postgraduates, and 10 diplomas.
At the event, Dr. Mujumdar and Shri. Somanath S, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Bengaluru were conferred with an honorary Doctor of Science degree (Honoris Causa).
After receiving his honorary degree, Shri. Somanath S said, that the degree he has received, was not only for him but for all the scientists working at ISRO. In recent years, India has made remarkable contributions to Space. India is not too far from achieving “Amrit kaal” as we are designing, developing, and implementing everything in India.
On the other hand, Dr. S B Mujumdar applauded the work done by Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth the quality of education it imparts, and the role the teachers are playing in shaping the future of students. Besides education, they are also imparting knowledge and skills for the holistic development of students which will help students to face a better tomorrow. He said that education is a lifelong process. It is not only about attaining a degree but becoming more humane. And, even after passing out of this University, a student gets to learn something new every day. The students will meet new teachers in their professional/ personal life journey and they gain valuable knowledge. He also gave examples from World War II and different Universities from across the world where he reiterated that students should work with innovation, compassion, and passion to be successful in every step in life.
