Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil University is set to introduce a Marathi language learning course for non-resident Indians (NRIs), as announced by Maharashtra’s Industry and Marathi Language Minister Uday Samant. He expressed confidence that if educational institutions adopt such a progressive mindset, Maharashtra will soon become a cultured and prosperous state.
Samant made this statement while addressing the 9th convocation ceremony of Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil University as the chief guest. The event was attended by University President Dr. Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain.
During the ceremony, honorary doctorates (D.Litt) were conferred upon distinguished personalities for their outstanding contributions in various fields: –
Prof. (Dr.) Nishakant Ojha (Cybersecurity, Space Security, National Defense, and International Political Strategy), Dr. Rachna Buxani-Mirpuri (Mental Health and Education), Maharaj Kumar Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh (Cultural Heritage Conservation, Social Welfare, Education), Amit Dhamani (Global Jewelry Trade), Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk (Founder of T10 Cricket League and Promoter of Sustainable Architecture)
Additionally, over 1,000 students across disciplines such as Engineering, Design, Film & Media, Law, Liberal Arts, Hospitality Management, and Architecture were awarded degrees.
During his speech, Uday Samant highlighted the concerns of Maharashtrians living abroad, who find it difficult to teach their children Marathi.
Recalling his experience at the Vishva Sahitya Sammelan in Pune, he said, “Many Marathi-speaking people residing outside Maharashtra expressed their regret that while their children attend prestigious schools, they struggle to speak their mother tongue. I requested Ajeenkya Patil to develop a curriculum that would allow NRIs to learn Marathi. He has shown keen interest in making this a reality.”
Samant also shared his achievements as an industry minister, stating, “To ensure employment opportunities for students, I secured investment agreements worth ₹15.7 lakh crore at the Davos summit. This is a historic achievement in Maharashtra’s history. I urge students to uphold the reputation of their respective fields and work towards strengthening Maharashtra’s rich cultural and traditional heritage.”
Prof. (Dr.) Nishakant Ojha stated, “I am proud of the graduating batch and remain committed to making ADYPU a foundation for innovation and research. Universities should be a hub of creativity and stakeholders should strive to create a place of cultural cross-pollination. ”
Reflecting on his tenure as Maharashtra’s Higher and Technical Education Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic, Samant said, “There was a debate on whether to conduct exams. When I asked students, 90% opposed them. I explained to the then-Chief Minister that gathering 60 lakh students, teachers, and staff for exams would be like creating a COVID-19 bomb. After multiple discussions, I finally decided to cancel all exams. Many students saw me as a savior, and I became known as the minister who canceled exams across Maharashtra.”
Uday Samant became emotional upon receiving an honorary doctorate from Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil University. “My parents always wanted me to become a doctor. From today, my name will carry the title ‘Dr.’. I am deeply honored by Dr. Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil’s recognition of my political and social contributions,” he said.
Dr. Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil emphasized the need for students to adapt to new technological challenges. “To stay ahead, students must think innovatively and acquire diverse skills. ADYPU is becoming a hub of innovation. Education is a lifelong journey, and students must embrace continuous learning.”
He also announced the construction of a 600-bed hospital within the university premises and the upcoming launch of a medical college. Acknowledging his father, Dr. D.Y. Patil, he said, “He pioneered private educational institutions in Maharashtra, ensuring affordable education for the underprivileged. We are continuing his legacy.”
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain highlighted the university’s various initiatives and announced the establishment of a Marathi Language Center to promote and preserve the language.
Mrs. Pooja Patil, Chairperson of Ajeenkya D Y Patil Group, added, “It is heartening to see our students ready to step into the world as confident, capable individuals. This event also reflects our university’s ethos of fostering excellence and recognizing those who inspire others through their work and values.”
The 9th Convocation Ceremony reflected the commitment of Ajeenkya D Y Patil University towards the cause of excellence in academics with innovation as it continues to be at the forefront of developing high-end educational institutions and offering the opportunity for conducting high-end research.
