2nd Convocation of Sarvajanik University, Surat, Gujarat

I am glad to attend the Convocation ceremony of Sarvajanik University in Surat, Gujarat. Firstly, I extend my congratulations to the young graduates who are all set to embark on a new journey 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 will encounter may seem daunting. However, I urge you to approach every obstacle as an opportunity for growth and innovation. As graduates of Sarvajanik 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, and while it offers incredible potential, there are concerns about its impact on jobs, decision-making, and society as a whole. As machines and AI systems become more advanced, there's an uncertainty of jobs in some sectors. However, I always feel that instead of creating a fear of losing something, one should embrace change and adapt to new ways of sustainability and growth. With the introduction of disruptive innovations it becomes important for you to be upgraded and equipped with the emerging and advanced technologies. Therefore, one should always keep the learning spirit alive forever.

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.

Also, in the context of emerging technologies, it becomes crucial for us to understand the importance of humaneness, emotional intelligence, and social well-being. While machines excel in tasks involving data processing, pattern recognition, and computation, they lack the innate human abilities of empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and emotional understanding. In an effort to introduce Human Values among students through education, AICTE has framed the curriculum for Minor Degree in Universal Human Values (UHV) to develop teachers, parents and policy makers of tomorrow who will have a humane worldview along with technical skills and strive to ensure value-based living for themselves as well as the society.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India has swiftly risen as a global powerhouse in the startup ecosystem, now ranking as the third largest in the world. This remarkable growth has fostered a culture of innovation, risk-taking, and technological advancement. India's journey to becoming a global startup hub is driven by key factors such as government support, access to funding, an evolving tech landscape, and a young, tech-savvy population. These elements have propelled the nation's growth trajectory to new heights. To sustain this momentum and continue fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and a robust startup ecosystem, it is crucial to nurture a culture of innovation within our academic institutions and beyond. Building a vibrant startup ecosystem demands a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including educators, students, investors, industry partners, and policymakers. Additionally, creating an environment that attracts investors, venture capitalists, and angel funders is essential 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.

Hon’ble PM says that the young generation’s enthusiasm, willpower and desire for nation-building has become the identity of India’s youth power. Recalling the mantra of 21st century India i.e. Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan and Jai Anusandhan, PM reiterated the importance of the current time period that will decide the direction of the next one thousand years. Friends, no matter which profession you choose, the application of technology is absolutely essential. As future engineers, you hold the power to shape the future, to innovate, create, and solve problems that may seem insurmountable. Remember, greatness lies not only in the pursuit of individual success but also in the impact we make on the lives of others. Whether you're designing groundbreaking 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 just for personal success, but also for the betterment of society.

Let me narrate you about the major initiative of AICTE for Youths: • 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. You all must be aware that in the recent budget, our Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji announced Rs 1 lakh crore fund to provide long-term, low-cost or zero-interest loans for research and development. This will accelerate India's entrepreneurial drive, by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. So, our government is also focusing on boosting and strengthening the research and development ecosystem in our country.

So, I urge our young people to get themselves involved in Research and Development in different fields as it is the backbone of a globally competitive, knowledge-driven economy. Promoting Innovation through R&D will help to develop new products and services that drive growth, create jobs, and improve the national welfare. Investing in research and development ensures high market participation. I also 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. At AICTE, our vision is to provide transformative education to students, to create leaders and innovators, and generate new knowledge for a sustainable society. AICTE has a tremendous role to play as a partner of a new knowledge economy to inspire, create and move our society forward. Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (AAPAR) and NCRF introduced as part of NEP 2020 implementation will be new QR code for learners.

I convey my heartiest congratulations to the Graduates of Sarvajanik 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.