Governor attends first convocation of Sikkim Alpine University

NAMCHI, (IPR): The first convocation ceremony of Sikkim Alpine University was attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur as the chief guest at Town Hall, Namchi today. 

He was accompanied by Minister of Education, Sports and Youth Affairs, and Law & Parliamentary Affairs departments, Raju Basnet as the guest of honour. Panchayati Raj advisor Rama Tamang, OSD to Namchi-Singhithang constituency, S.J. Lepcha and UDHD bazar officer Babita Rai were present as the special guests. 

The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the Governor, who officially declared the convocation open.

In his address, the Governor congratulated all graduating students and commended the university for nurturing outstanding achievers within a short span of time since its establishment in 2021. He underlined the role of education not only in shaping careers but also in building characters, kindness and service to society. Referring to Sikkim’s natural beauty and purity, he urged the youth to embody the essence and dignity of the state in their future endeavours. 

Highlighting the vision of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Viksit Bharat 2047”, the Governor stressed the importance of empowering the youth, women, farmers and poor to transform India into a developed nation by the centenary of Independence. He encouraged students to make the best use of government -funded schemes and skill oriented initiatives such as "Start-up India”, "Make in India" and "Digital India" which promote Innovation and self-reliance. 

Citing India’s rich educational heritage through the example of Nalanda University, he noted the country's historic contribution to global knowledge exchange. He also emphasized the international recognition of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, particularly through the celebration of International Yoga Day which is celebrated worldwide and was adopted by the United Nations in 2014.

Addressing the infrastructural challenges faced by private institutions in Sikkim, he assured support from both Centre and state government. The Governor further expressed delight in witnessing the rising number of female graduates, terming it as a step forward in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of women empowerment especially in the field of education. 

On the occasion, Raju Basnet expressed gratitude on behalf of the Education Department, appreciating the efforts of the university in opening new avenues for students not only in the state but also across India and neighbouring countries. 

He underscored the vision of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to establish Sikkim as an educational Hub that nurtures future scholars and intellectuals of repute. 

Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Dr Ashish Chaturvedi delivered the welcome address and presented an overview of the university’s achievements through a short video presentation, affirming the institution’s commitment to producing more successful students and leaders.

The highlight of the event was the conferment of the degrees and awards to the graduating students, followed by a moving performance of the National Anthem in sign language by students pursuing special education- as an ode to children who require additional support to learn due to challenges in learning, emotional development, physical abilities or behaviour. 

The ceremony was also attended by Education secretary Tashi Chopel Lepcha, Namchi DC Anupa Tamling, senior SP Karma Gyamtso Bhutia, SDM (HQ) Nim Pintso Bhutia, Namchi SDM Saran Kalikotey, Sikkim Alpine University chancellor Ajindar Kumar Bansal, councillors, zilla panchayats, Board of Directors (Alpine University), Namchi BDO, principals from various schools and institutions, parents, and staff and faculty of Sikkim Alpine University.