Guwahati, 19 January (HS): Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Monday called upon students to pursue continuous learning and constant skill upgradation to transform emerging challenges of the 21st century into opportunities. Addressing the 5th Convocation of Assam Science and Technology University (ASTU) at Tetelia, the Governor said the convocation marked the beginning of a new journey filled with both challenges and possibilities.

Highlighting the rapidly changing global landscape, Acharya urged graduates to stay connected with emerging technologies, innovation and global trends, while upholding ethics, integrity and cultural values. He said these values provide strength, resilience and confidence in difficult times.

A total of 5,829 degrees were awarded to students of the 2024 and 2025 batches, with 1,058 graduates receiving their degrees in person. During the ceremony, 102 programme toppers, 31 gold medallists, 29 silver medallists and 28 bronze medallists were also felicitated.

Expressing satisfaction over ASTU’s progress in a short span since its establishment, the Governor said the university’s students and faculty were contributing consistently to knowledge creation through research initiatives. He added that innovation and entrepreneurship-driven graduates from ASTU could play a vital role in making India a global technological power.

Acharya also emphasised the role of higher education institutions in establishing India as a “global knowledge superpower” and stressed the need for quality education, world-class research and innovation. He underlined the importance of taking the benefits of education and new technologies to villages for balanced and sustainable national development.

Former IIT Guwahati Director Prof Gautam Barua attended the convocation as Guest of Honour. ASTU Vice-Chancellor Prof Narendra Chaudhary, Registrar Dr Nripen Das, Academic Registrar Dr Amitabh Barua, members of the university bodies, principals of affiliated colleges and other dignitaries were also present.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash