The 21st Convocation Ceremony of H.P University was held here today. His Holiness, the Dalai Lama was the chief guest on the occasion. Governor Urmila Singh, who is also the Chancellor of the University, conferred honorary D.Litt. Degree upon His Holiness, the Dalai Lama.

His Holiness, the Dalai Lama and Urmila Singh awarded 123 gold medals and Certificates, 194 doctorate degrees to meritorious students in the Convocation Ceremony. Honorary D.Litt degree was also conferred upon Prof. S.R.Mehrotra for his contribution the field of social sciences.

Presiding over the Convocation, Governor emphasized upon developing an ideal atmosphere in educational institutions which could provide equal opportunities of growth and development to every student. She said that every student was talented and it was the responsibility of the teachers to encourage the students so that their potential could be exploited for the benefit of the society as well as their own growth.

She said that youth could play a very significant role in building the nation and added that they should actively participate in social activities as responsible and aware youth would not only empower the society but country as well. She said that youth were the backbone of the society and they should come forward and contribute towards the progress of the nation.

Underlining the importance of teaching community, Singh said that the role of teachers in shaping the destiny of students was vital as they were looked upon as role models and could make lasting impression on the young minds. They had a huge responsibility towards the society and therefore should set up good examples through their good conduct and learning, she added.

She congratulated the students who were awarded degrees and medals and urged them to excel in their respective fields by working sincerely and contributing towards the welfare of the society so that others could take inspiration from them.

Prof A D N Vajpayee Vice Chancellor of the University proposed vote of thanks. Ravi Thakur, Vice Chairman National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, Sanjay Kumar, DGP, Academic and non teaching staff of various departments, students and prominent people of the town were present on the occasion.