6th Convocation of JSS Science and Technology University, Mysuru

Namaskar!

I am extremely glad to attend the 6th Convocation ceremony of JSS Science and Technology University. Firstly, I extend my congratulations to the young graduates who are all set to step up in their career and begin a new chapter in their life with a lot of hopes and dreams. This occasion is indeed a significant milestone in the lives of our graduating students, as you will embark on a journey of professional and personal growth.

Friends, do not consider this day as the end of your academic journey, instead term your graduation as the stepping stone for future plans. From today onwards, keep your mind windows open to explore, engage and experience something new and innovative. We are living in the Amrit Kaal and this is the time to take a quantum leap in your career. Do some critical thinking, upskill and reskill yourself with new technologies and ideas and mark a space for yourself in the world of rapid evolution.

In a world that is constantly evolving, the challenges you encounter may seem daunting. However, I urge you to approach every obstacle as an opportunity for growth and innovation. As graduates of JSS University, you are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and ethical values to navigate the complexities of the global landscape.

Friends, AI and other emerging technologies are indeed transforming various aspects of our lives. While these advancements offer incredible potential, they also raise concerns about their impact on jobs, decision-making, and society as a whole. As machines and AI systems become more advanced, there is uncertainty regarding employment in some sectors. Despite this, I believe that instead of fearing loss, we should embrace change and adapt to new ways of sustainability and growth. With the introduction of disruptive innovations, it is crucial for you to stay updated and equipped with emerging and advanced technologies. Therefore, always keep the spirit of learning alive.

Therefore, students need to develop these humane skills alongside technical knowledge. I would like to highlight the AICTE courses in emerging areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Block Chain, Robotics, Quantum Computing, Data Sciences etc. We designed these courses to equip students and faculty with the necessary digital skills to adapt to the rapidly changing demands of the 21st-century economy. These courses are meticulously designed to provide students with industry-relevant skills, thereby improving their employability and competitiveness in the job market.

In the context of emerging technologies, it is essential for us to recognize the importance of humaneness, emotional intelligence, and social well-being. While machines excel in tasks like data processing, pattern recognition, and computation, they lack the inherent human capabilities of empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and emotional understanding.

To instill human values in students through education, AICTE has developed a curriculum for a Minor Degree in Universal Human Values (UHV). This program aims to nurture teachers, parents, and policymakers of the future who will possess a humane perspective alongside their technical skills, striving to ensure a value-based existence for themselves and society.

Friends, the youth of our nation are our greatest superpower, holding the potential to elevate India to global prominence. We have been leading the charge across numerous sectors. In recent years, India has experienced significant transformative growth, with digital innovation being a crucial element. This digital evolution is fueled by our unwavering commitment to innovation and rapid implementation. India's Digital Public Infrastructure offers scalable, secure, and inclusive solutions to global challenges. Aadhar card, CoWIN, and UPI are just a few shining examples of India's digital progress.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India has rapidly emerged as a global powerhouse in the startup ecosystem. India emerged as the third largest startup ecosystem in the world. The country's startup ecosystem has witnessed an unprecedented surge, supporting a culture of innovation, risk-taking, and technological advancements. India's remarkable journey to becoming a global startup hub can be attributed to a combination of key factors like government support, access to funding, evolving tech landscape and a young tech-savvy population. This has propelled its growth trajectory to new heights. To continue the journey towards fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and the development of a robust startup ecosystem, it is vital to cultivate a culture of innovation within our academic institutions and beyond. The creation of a vibrant startup ecosystem requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders – educators, students, investors, industry partners, and policymakers. Also, it is important to create an environment that attracts investors, venture capitalists, and angel funders to support the ventures of budding entrepreneurs.

In view of the same, The All India Council for Technical Education launched ‘Ministry of Education - AICTE Investor Network’, a meticulously designed platform jointly established by AICTE and the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC) with a vision to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the education sector. The network aims to provide crucial financial support, mentoring, and strategic guidance to early-stage student or faculty-led startups. The platform aligns with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra to create a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship. Apart from this, AICTE organises hackathons like Smart India Hackathon etc, and Innovation, Design and Entrepreneurship (IDE) bootcamps to promote the innovative skills among the youths.

As future engineers, you have the power to shape the future, to innovate, to create, and to solve problems that seem insurmountable. Whether you're designing ground-breaking technology, constructing sustainable infrastructure, or revolutionizing industries, let your work be a testament to your passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence. It is our duty to use our knowledge and skills not only for personal success but also for the betterment of society.

I would like to highlight that AICTE in its own endeavour is taking proactive steps for the youths like you. AICTE internship portal has immense opportunities for young graduates who want to scale new heights in their career. The portal has over 2 crore registered students with over 75,000 companies offering internships. In the placement portal more than 2,000 companies are offering jobs, and in 2024 the placements will be taking place in colleges located in rural and tribal areas.

I encourage young minds of our country to go through the technical books developed by AICTE in Hindi and other regional languages. When you think in your mother tongue, your ideas will be much better and sharper, fostering greater innovation. You can read the technical course books available in regional languages. AICTE has released textbooks in English and 12 other regional languages for undergraduate and diploma courses, accessible for free on the AICTE’s e-kumbh portal.

I convey my heartiest congratulations to the Graduates of JSS Science and Technology University. Each one of you has received a formal recognition in the form of a degree that will empower you to become a great achiever and will make your parents proud and your Alma mater proud of you for years to come. However, as you celebrate your achievements, do not forget the support systems that have been the bedrock of your success. Your families, professors, mentors, and friends have been our guiding lights, offering unwavering encouragement, wisdom, and love. Their sacrifices and belief in our abilities have brought you to this momentous day.

My dear young ladies and gentlemen, the world is big. You have plenty of opportunities before you. You deserve to be proud of this achievement, and to take this opportunity to celebrate. Let your dream be your wings to carry you into the future. As you embark on this new chapter, dare to dream, strive for excellence, and always remember the lessons learned within these walls. May your future be filled with boundless opportunities and may you continue to make us proud.

Once again Congratulations to all of you. Good luck and good health to all of you.

Thank You! Jai Hind.

Watch full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs8Vd9CnUlw