SHIMLA-22^nd March, 2025-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the 8^th Convocation of Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan today.

Governor said that passing out from the university is a day to celebrate and rejoice. Besides, it is an appropriate time to acknowledge the efforts of all those who have supported you, whether it be your family, friends, or your teachers. “I hope and pray that your future journey enriches you culturally, professionally and personally. You have gained a wealth of knowledge and potential which brings with it added responsibility and expectations towards the society and Nation. It is so important for you to start working towards your goals and to decide how you want to make a difference, particularly in uplifting the society and building the Nation, while remaining connected to our culture and traditions” said he.

Governor said that the Chancellor of the University Prof. P.K. Khosla, dynamic Pro Chancellor Prof. Vishal Anand and Vice Chancellor Prof. Atul Khosla have played a crucial part in taking this institution to this position of excellence.

The Governor awarded 34 Gold Medals to outstanding students of the university. Besides, he conferred 1,254 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, along with 105 Ph.D. degrees and 20 Merit Certificates for exceptional performance.

While highlighting the transformative steps being taken in India’s education system, especially with the introduction of the New Education Policy (NEP), he said that the ancient learning imparted multidisciplinary and holistic education which was followed at Takshila and Nalanda universities centuries ago which was acknowledged by the entire world.

He said that the drug abuse has become a serious problem in our society and the students should abstain from it as it diminishes potential, disturbs the families and weakens our nation. “As educated individuals, you must resist this menace, spread awareness and lead by giving an example”, he said.

He administered an oath to raise awareness and promote the commitment to fight against the growing menace of drug abuse and asked Chancellor of the university to include a column in the admission forms in which the student have to commit that they will not use any kind of drugs.

Earlier, the Governor planted an avocado sapling in the university campus. He inaugurated the Atal Community Innovation Centre of the Shoolini University, a premier startup incubator supported by Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog. The center empowers entrepreneurs in Biotech, Artificial Intelligence /Machine Learning, AgriTech, and Renewable Energy with ultramodern facilities and mentorship.

Earlier, Vice Chancellor of the University Prof Atul Khosla welcomed the Governor on his arrival.

Chancellor of Shoolini University Prof P.K. Khosla highlighted the achievements of the university and said that the today this University has been ranked among the top 200 universities globally.

Head of Australian Trade and Investment Commission, New Delhi Dr. Monica Kennedy, Secretary to the Governor Chander Prakash Verma, Pro Chancellor Prof. Vishal Anand, President Saroj Khosla and Vice President Ashok Anand of the Foundation for Life Sciences and Business Management, Ex. Vice Chancellor of Punjab University Padamshree Dr. Sobati, Members of the Governing Body and the Trust were also present amongst others on the occasion.