Build Your Identity Through Confidence and Hard Work, and Bring Positive Change in the Society: Governor Shri Ramen Deka

Governor attends seventh convocation of Pt. Sundarlal Sharma Open University

Degrees and diplomas awarded to 24,800 students

Raipur, November 3, 2026/ Governor Shri Ramen Deka urged young people to move ahead in life with confidence, sustained effort and their unique talents. Rather than being discouraged by failure, they should understand its causes, learn from their mistakes and try again. Education, he said, should be used not only for personal success but also to bring positive change to society. Governor was addressing the seventh convocation of Pt. Sundarlal Sharma Open University, Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur, as its presiding dignitary. Degrees and diplomas were awarded to 24,800 students from the past five years, across undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma programmes.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao, MLAs Shri Dharamlal Kaushik and Shri Sushant Shukla, Mayor Smt. Pooja Vidhani, Haryana State Higher Education Council Chairman Shri Kailash Chandra Sharma, NAAC Chairman Shri Nageshwar Rao, University Vice-Chancellor Shri Virendra Kumar Saraswat and vice-chancellors of various universities attended the ceremony. The university’s upgraded official website was launched, and its commemorative publication Abhyudaya was released. The university also distributed bags, sweaters, tiffin boxes and water bottles to 311 students of Eklavya School, Devpahari.

Congratulating students who received degrees and medals, Governor Shri Deka said their achievements reflected the significant contributions of their parents, teachers and educational institutions. A convocation inspires students to move forward with renewed energy and a sense of responsibility, he said. Open universities play an important role in taking knowledge to remote areas and expanding access to education. The internet and digital technology have made knowledge more accessible, he said, urging young people to use these tools wisely and develop their critical thinking and creativity.

Governor Shri Deka said that many new avenues of employment and livelihood are emerging. Young people should identify their interests and abilities and work hard to pursue them. Everyone must create their own place in life, he said, advising students to trust their individuality rather than imitate or compare themselves with others. He also urged parents not to impose their expectations on children, but to support them in pursuing paths suited to their interests and talents.

Shri Deka emphasised the importance of inner fulfilment, balance and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. He called on young people to avoid excessive use of digital devices and make meaningful use of their time. Every individual, he said, could contribute to social change through simple actions such as keeping their surroundings clean, planting trees and caring for them. People should undertake work that aims not merely at an exchange of benefits, but at creating positive change. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao congratulated the students who received degrees and medals and urged them to use their knowledge and skills for the betterment of society.

Established in the name of freedom fighter and social reformer Pt. Sundarlal Sharma, the university is helping fulfil the aspirations of people who cannot pursue regular studies because of work or other circumstances. He congratulated the university on receiving an ‘A+’ grade from NAAC and said it was playing an important role in advancing the National Education Policy and expanding access to education. Haryana State Higher Education Council Chairman Shri Kailash Chandra Sharma delivered the convocation address. NAAC Chairman Shri Nageshwar Rao also addressed the gathering.

In his welcome address, Vice-Chancellor Shri Virendra Kumar Saraswat highlighted the university’s achievements. On the occasion, Members of the university’s executive council, other officials, administrative officers, faculty members, students, parents and distinguished guests were also present.