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NEW DELHI: The talent and capability of today’s graduates will take the country to new heights on the global stage, said Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday, while speaking at the 18th convocation of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU). “Today’s graduates are the real drivers of Viksit Bharat,” she said at the event held at the university’s East Delhi campus in Surajmal Vihar. A total of 26,649 degrees were conferred on students, including 124 PhDs, 11 MPhils, 2,873 postgraduate, 22,455 undergraduate, 477 MBBS and 709 MD/MS and DM/MCh degrees. University officials said women accounted for 70 per cent of PhD recipients among the graduating students this year. Seventy-six gold medals and six memorial awards were presented to meritorious students. Addressing the ceremony, Delhi lieutenant governor and chancellor of GGSIPU Taranjit Singh Sandhu said a convocation marks not just the end of an academic journey but the beginning of new responsibilities toward nation-building. He said students are entering a world rapidly reshaped by Artificial Intelligence and sustainable innovation, and urged them to go beyond textbook learning. “Logical thinking is the real strength in the age of AI and innovation,” said LG Sandhu, adding, “Degrees must go beyond textbook knowledge.” He said adaptability, logical thinking and the courage to innovate would be crucial in the years ahead. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Viksit Bharat @2047”, he said the country needs problem-solvers who can tackle complex challenges in areas such as urban development, public health and digital governance. GGSIPU vice-chancellor Mahesh Verma reaffirmed the university’s focus on innovation, research, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. “Move forward with responsibility, integrity, and purpose,” he said. Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delhi and chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education, Yogesh Singh, also attended the convocation. The chief minister said the convocation reflected years of hard work, discipline and dedication by students. She urged students to use their education not only for personal growth but also for the larger good of society. She also highlighted the university’s work in emerging fields such as AI, robotics, data science and design innovation. Praising the Atal Incubation Centre at the university, the chief minister said it has supported more than 170 startups, helping young people move from being job seekers to job creators. Outlining the Delhi government’s education priorities, Gupta said the education budget has increased to Rs 19,326 crore this year. “Our aim is not just to make schools smarter, but to ensure world-class facilities in higher education as well,” said the chief minister, adding that more than 2,200 students are receiving free coaching for competitive exams such as JEE, NEET and CLAT.
