GANGTOK,: Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) held its 24th convocation ceremony at its Tadong campus in Gangtok today. On the occasion, the university awarded degrees to 1,029 graduates and postgraduates from various disciplines.
Graduates from all constituent colleges of SMU including Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Sikkim Manipal College of Nursing and others were conferred degrees. The disciplines included MBBS, MD-MS, B.Tech, M.Tech, and a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in nursing, physiotherapy, biotechnology and management. Among the graduates, 15 gold and five silver medallists were honoured for their outstanding academic performance.
The event was presided over by Governor and SMU chancellor Om Prakash Mathur, who congratulated the students on receiving their degrees and highlighted SMU’s role as a pioneer in education and healthcare in Sikkim and beyond. He lauded the institution’s adaptability to 21st century teaching methodologies and its alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He said, “Since its inception, Sikkim Manipal University has set many milestones, and today, it has earned a distinguished and respected place in the higher education landscape of the country. I am pleased to share that the graduates from this institution are excelling in their chosen fields and making a mark in the competitive world”
On the evolution of teaching methodology, the Governor said, “The method of teaching has now evolved to meet the needs of the 21st century, and the government is focusing on ensuring that education is not limited to textbook knowledge but also equips students with life skills that enable them to live successfully in society. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has brought about a revolutionary change in our country's education system. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are witnessing a policy shift not seen since the 1986 education policy.”
Chief guest R. Ganesan, head, Corporate Centre, L&T Construction, urged graduates to value their education and remain connected to their roots, including the guidance of parents and mentors. He emphasized the vital role of educated youth in building a developed India and encouraged medical graduates to make healthcare affordable and accessible to all.
Pro chancellor Dr. K. Ramnarayan, in his welcome address, shared the “4 Ps of Professionalism” – proactivity, positivity, physical fitness, and punctuality – encouraging graduates to lead purposeful lives.
SMU vice chancellor Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Dr. Dilip Chandra Agarwal presented the university's achievements, including its remarkable 90% placement rate over six years and the launch of Centers of Excellence in areas like e-mobility, block chain and 5G technology. He highlighted SMU’s contributions to education and healthcare in Sikkim including scholarships, free MBBS seats for local students and initiatives like the Sikkim Manipal Swasthya Suraksha program.
Dr. Agarwal also emphasized the university’s commitment to research and sustainability with numerous publications, patents and green initiatives reducing the campus carbon footprint. “Our journey is a testament to excellence, with SMU firmly rooted in tradition while embracing innovation for the future,” he said.
State Health minister G.T. Dhungel, Manipal Education and Medical Group chairman Dr. Ranjan Pai and Health secretary Bharani Kumar were also present.