Delhi University celebrated its 95th foundation day today at the convention hall of the historical vice-regal lodge. The celebrations which marked the birth of the University 95 years from today saw Dr. Karan Singh, Member of Parliament, Dr. Swapan Dasgupta, MP- Rajya Sabha, Ambassador Shri Jayant Prasad and Mr. Rajat Sharma as distinguished guests among others.
The celebrations begun with the unfurling of the University flag at the ‘Gulab Vatika’ premises by the guests which was followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Then the guests of the occasion were felicitated by the Vice Chancellor of the University which was followed by the addresses by guests to the gathering. Dr. Karan Singh’s speech focused on the need of a changing education to meet the changing demands of the time. He also reiterated the long pending issue of new education policy. He ended his address by asking everyone to remember their fundamental duties when they talk of fundamental rights.
This was followed by address of Mr. Shiv Shankar Mukherjee and then followed by Mr. Jayant Prasad. Being the alumni of St. Stephens College, both of them shared their memories related to Rohtas Samosa and the Woodehouse society of the college. They also mentioned about the growing Naxal movement in the university during their period. This was followed by address of Rajat Sharma, the editor-in-chief of India TV and the host of the popular ‘Aap ki Adalat’ show. Sharma remembered how Delhi University taught him to dream and also how to turn the dream into reality.
This was followed by the presenting of several distinguished service awards to retired teachers, non-teaching staff and teachers with exceptional achievements. After the felicitation ceremony, Prof. Yogesh Tyagi, the vice-chancellor of the University addressed the gathering asking everyone to send in their suggestions on how to make University a better place.
The program drew its curtains with vote of thanks by Prof. Pami Dua, Dean of academics which was followed by high tea. The entire ceremony was also translated into sign language by the interpreters on the stage which made the proceedings accessible to the deaf and mute community as well.
Image Credits: Srivedant Kar for DU beat
Srivedant Kar