Srinagar, February 26, 2026: Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday addressed the 21st Convocation of the University of Kashmir, urging higher education institutions to evolve into dynamic centres of innovation, human development and social transformation.
The ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, who attended as the Chief Guest.
Extending his best wishes to the graduating students, the Lieutenant Governor called upon them to adopt the guiding principle of “One purpose, one priority — Country first.” He said that nations rise not merely on the strength of resources, but on the foundation of educated and enlightened citizens.
Describing education as the most powerful instrument of change, Sinha said it transforms individual lives, reshapes family destinies and rewrites the future of nations. He emphasized that the knowledge gained at the University of Kashmir represents not just the acquisition of skills, but holistic personality development that builds self-confidence and fosters responsible citizenship.
Highlighting the rapidly evolving global landscape, the Lieutenant Governor noted that the digital revolution, artificial intelligence and shifting global dynamics are redefining higher education. He said that while industries and careers continue to transform, students equipped with critical thinking, core knowledge and a commitment to lifelong learning will remain ahead of the curve.
He stressed that classroom ideas must translate into real-world impact and urged universities to move beyond their traditional roles as custodians of knowledge. Calling for robust industry–academia collaboration, he said institutions must partner with industry, innovators and research and development organisations to contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat and co-create the future.
Referring to the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, urban planning and governance, Sinha said universities must ensure that technological advancement serves human welfare and is guided by ethical values.
Addressing faculty members, he outlined three priorities: embedding adaptability as a core skill across curricula; integrating AI and emerging technologies with human intelligence; and promoting global and interdisciplinary collaboration to address interconnected modern challenges.
Reiterating the national goal of becoming a fully developed nation by 2047, the Lieutenant Governor said that the vision of Viksit Bharat is driven by diligence, innovation, moral strength and sustained effort, with the youth playing a central role in achieving this objective.
Congratulating the medal winners, he particularly lauded the outstanding performance of girl students. Out of 239 gold medals awarded, 186 were secured by female students, while 108 out of 164 PhDs were conferred upon women scholars. He termed this achievement a defining feature of New India and a testament to the transformative power of equal opportunity.
On the occasion, the dignitaries also released the university’s profile publication.
Among those present were Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir; Sakina Itoo, Minister for Higher Education; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir; Vice-Chancellors of various universities; senior civil and police officials; faculty members; students and their parents.
