Women’s Impact on Higher Education Highlighted at IP University Convocation
The 17th convocation ceremony of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University held at its Dwarka campus in New Delhi was a momentous occasion, with key leaders emphasizing the significant role of women in higher education. Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, addressing the audience, reiterated the Delhi government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing higher education, citing the substantial Rs 500-crore budget allocation for the upcoming educational hub in Narela as a clear indication of this dedication.
As the chancellor of the university, Saxena shed light on the evolving landscape of education and politics in India, underscoring the increasing participation of women in higher education. He pointed out that women were not only earning a considerable number of degrees but were also excelling in fields like doctoral studies. In a nod to Delhi’s unique position, where both the chief minister and the leader of the opposition are women, Saxena emphasized the symbolic significance of women’s growing presence in academia.
A total of 24,446 degrees were conferred during the ceremony, including 21,222 undergraduate degrees, 3,112 postgraduate degrees, 12 MPhil degrees, and over 100 PhD degrees, reflecting the university’s commitment to fostering academic excellence across various disciplines.
Empowering Through Education: A Collective Responsibility
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta reiterated the government’s steadfast focus on enhancing Delhi’s education system, emphasizing that the vision of a developed India is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the government. She urged every citizen to contribute in their own small way, highlighting the transformative power of individual actions in driving national progress. Gupta’s call for active citizen participation resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of grassroots involvement in shaping the future of education in the country.
Education Minister Ashish Sood echoed the sentiment of empowerment, urging graduates to embrace sustainable practices and leverage artificial intelligence to propel the nation forward. With a notable observation that more women were graduating than men, Sood celebrated this milestone as a testament to the growing inclusivity and diversity within the educational landscape. The recognition of women’s achievements in academia served as a poignant reminder of the strides made towards gender equality and empowerment in higher education.
Vice-Chancellor Mahesh Verma reflected on the university’s transformative journey over the past 25 years, emphasizing how Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University had evolved into a beacon of empowerment and inspiration for students. Verma’s words captured the spirit of resilience and growth that defined the institution, positioning it as a catalyst for positive change and innovation in the academic realm.
The convocation also shone a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of women, who surpassed their male counterparts in various categories. Among the 110 recipients of PhD degrees, 75 were women, showcasing their remarkable academic prowess and dedication. Additionally, 49 out of 73 medal winners were women, further underscoring their academic excellence and contributions to the university community. The recognition of women through special medals served as a fitting tribute to their remarkable accomplishments and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
In conclusion, the convocation ceremony at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University not only celebrated the academic achievements of its graduates but also highlighted the pivotal role of women in shaping the future of higher education. As the torchbearers of knowledge and change, women continue to inspire and lead by example, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse educational landscape that empowers all individuals to realize their full potential.
