Rajendra University marks sixth Foundation Day, sets sights on national prominence
By Mahendra Kumar Darjee
Balangir (Odisha), Sept. 1: Rajendra University, one of western Odisha’s prominent institutions of higher learning, celebrated its sixth Foundation Day on Monday with renewed emphasis on academic excellence, infrastructure development and preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
The day-long programme brought together Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Bardhan Singhdeo, senior academicians, medical professionals, university officials, faculty members, alumni and students at the university campus.
Singhdeo, who attended the event as Chief Guest, highlighted the State government’s initiatives to strengthen higher education and improve academic infrastructure across Odisha. Referring specifically to Rajendra University, he said sustained support was being provided to enhance its infrastructure and academic capabilities in keeping with the evolving aspirations of students.
He also urged the younger generation to take up leadership responsibilities and contribute to nation-building while remaining rooted in India’s rich tradition, culture and history.
Presiding over the programme, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bibhuti Bhusan Mallick outlined the university’s vision of emerging as an institution of national importance. He called upon faculty members, non-teaching staff and students to shoulder their responsibilities with dedication and work collectively to further enhance the university’s academic and social impact.
Prof. Byomakesh Tripathy, Vice-Chancellor of Gangadhar Meher University, spoke about the socioeconomic challenges confronting young people and stressed the need for adaptability, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Prof. (Dr.) Madhabananda Kar, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Darbhanga, emphasised the close relationship between physical health, mental well-being and civic responsibility. He said holistic well-being was essential for young people to become productive and responsible citizens.
Chairperson of the PG Council Dr. Pratap Kumar Dash urged students to cultivate creativity, courage and strong character while pursuing knowledge with discipline and perseverance.
The university’s annual report, detailing its academic achievements, research activities and administrative progress during the previous academic year, was presented by Deputy Registrar Biswajit Behera.
A major highlight of the celebrations was the presentation of the inaugural Gayatri Saraf Galpa Samman, an annual literary award instituted by the university to recognise excellence in literature. The award was conferred on Dr. Sanjay Mishra for his lifetime contribution to Odia short-story writing.
The university’s annual magazine Prajnajyoti was also released. An English translation of Padma Shri awardee Srinivas Udgata’s work Krushna was unveiled on the occasion.
The celebrations concluded with a cultural programme featuring music, dance and theatrical performances by students and faculty members.
