Prayagraj, Oct 27 (HS): The birth anniversary of the

founder, Dr. Sam Higginbottom, was celebrated as 'Founders Day' at the Sam

Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS),

Prayagraj, on Tuesday. The programme commenced with the Word of Prayer by

University Chaplain Rev. Lal Chung Gangte, followed by prayer and worship songs

presented by the University Boys’ and Girls’ Choir, creating an atmosphere of

gratitude and devotion.

Registrar Prof. Dr. C. John Wesley, while highlighting the

inspirational contribution of the founder Dr. Sam Higginbottom, said that Dr.

Sam Higginbottom dedicated his life for the upliftment of rural communities,

for which he established Allahabad Agricultural Institute in the year 1910, which

became a deemed university in the year 2000 and is currently serving the

country and the state as a state university.

The Chief Guest, Most Rev. Prof. Dr. Rajendra B. Lal, VC

Emeritus, SHUATS, addressed the gathering and highlighted the founder’s vision

and mission, “To Serve the Land and Feed the Hungry.” He explained that this

inspiration came from the New Testament, where Jesus commanded His disciples,

“You feed them.” He emphasized that Dr. Sam Higginbottom’s purpose was not

merely charity, but the establishment of an agricultural institution and the

expansion of agricultural education to empower farmers, the poor and labourers,

enabling them to contribute to the nation’s progress.

Prof. Lal also spoke about the close association between Dr.

Sam Higginbottom and Mahatma Gandhi and their shared vision for rural India. He

recalled the contributions of early pioneers, including Colonel Hudson and

Prof. Mason Vaugh. Sharing his cherished memories of former professors and the

university’s early years, he recounted the challenges of financial crises and

struggles, and how the institution persevered through faith, prayer and

determination.

In his presidential address, Prof. Dr. Ir. Jonathan A. Lal,

Vice-Chancellor, SHUATS, urged the university fraternity to draw inspiration

from the vision, dedication and perseverance of Dr. Sam Higginbottom, who laid

the foundation of the university despite limited resources and financial means.

He remarked that SHUATS has grown into a renowned institution and emphasized

that the founder’s remarkable journey inspires everyone to work collectively

with commitment and determination to take the university to greater heights.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks. Present on the

dais were the university’s First Lady and Director of HRM & R, Dr.

Abhilasha J. Lal; Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Ranu Prasad;

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Bishwarup Mehera;

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (PMD), Prof. Ritu Prakash Dubey; and Treasurer Chandra Sen

Bharti. Also the programme was attended by all Deans, Directors, Heads of

Departments, faculty members, staff, and a large number of students.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi