Bhubaneswar: Students should take greater responsibility for their academic and personal growth and maintain a healthy balance between study, sleep, food, and physical activity, the National Institute of Science Education and Research Director, Prof. Hirendranath Ghosh, said.
He was speaking at the Central University of Odisha’s (CUO) 18th Foundation Day celebration in Sunabeda.
Ghosh, the chief guest at the event, advised students to spend more time studying instead of being excessively engaged with mobile phones. He urged them to make proper use of available opportunities, take notes in class, and maintain discipline during their formative years.
He also stressed the need for basic science departments in universities to support scientific institution-building. Ghosh expressed hope that CUO would emerge among the top 10 Central Universities and encouraged students to explore advanced scientific training opportunities, including the BARC Training School, according to an official statement.
Recalling the contribution of scientists from rural and tribal backgrounds, Ghosh highlighted how many leading scientists have emerged from villages. He referred to Prof. Mohanty of the Atomic Energy Commission in this context.
Ghosh also introduced a presentation on “Quantum Dots: A New Era in Optoelectronics”, connecting contemporary scientific developments with the recognition of quantum dots through the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
The Foundation Day was celebrated at its Main Campus in Sunabeda. The programme began with the National Song, followed by the hoisting of the CUO Flag by Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajit Kumar Shasany.
In his presidential address, Shasany stressed discipline, skills and holistic education. He urged students to reflect on their aim in life and highlighted the importance of integrating science with literature and skill-based education.
Shasany also highlighted the potential of tribal diversity, biodiversity and Artificial Intelligence in strengthening the university’s academic vision. He referred to the Blue Economy, Green Economy and Blockchain while outlining his vision for taking CUO to the global stage.
The vice-chancellor said the university aimed to increase its student strength to 5,000 and strengthen its Skill Centre. He also emphasised campus life, sports and fitness and sought support from HAL and NAD.
Padma Shri Gobardhan Panika, the Guest of Honour, spoke about the importance of tradition, karma and continuity across generations. Drawing on his experience of struggle and perseverance, he stressed that success requires sustained effort and resilience.
Prof. Hrushikesh Senapaty, Vice-Chancellor of Vikram Dev University, Jeypore, highlighted reforms under the National Education Policy. He spoke about the importance and challenges of outcome-based education.
Koraput MLA Raghuram Machha thanked the Ministry of Education for its support to CUO. He said educational institutions should function as workshops for creating capable human beings.
Registrar (I/c) Dr Sanjay Kumar Pradhan delivered the welcome address. The message of the President of India was read by Dr Nirjharini Tripathy, while the message of the governor of Odisha was read by Dr Pradosh Kumar Rath.
A coffee table book titled “CUO at a Glance”, presenting an overview of the university’s academic profile and achievements, was released during the programme.
The event concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Rathikanta Kumbhar, Head of the Department of Economics and Coordinator. Dr Ramendra Parhi coordinated the 18th Foundation Day programme.
