Delhi Lieutenant-Governor Taranjit Sandhu Reconnects with Alma Mater in Amritsar
In a heartfelt homecoming, Delhi Lieutenant-Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu recently visited Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) in Amritsar, where he once studied and his father served as the inaugural Vice-Chancellor. The visit, following his appointment as L-G, included interactions with students and faculty, highlighting his deep-rooted ties to the institution.
Nostalgic Reflections and Family Heritage
Sandhu, a former diplomat, shared vivid memories of his student days and recounted anecdotes from his father, Bishan Singh Samundri's tenure as GNDU's founding Vice-Chancellor. Accompanied by his wife, Reenat Sandhu, former Ambassador to the Netherlands, he toured the campus, including the VC's residence, which he once called home. He emphasized the foresight of his father and grandfather, Teja Singh Samundri, in bolstering education and social awareness in Punjab during times of limited opportunities.
Emphasis on Modern Education and Technological Integration
Addressing the gathering, Sandhu stressed the evolving role of universities beyond degree conferral. He advocated for a focus on skill-based education and technological awareness, particularly highlighting artificial intelligence as a transformative global force. "We can either catch up or lag behind in this technology race," he remarked, urging GNDU to prepare students for worldwide prospects through innovation.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Amritsar and GNDU
Sandhu praised Amritsar and GNDU as pivotal centers for historical and cultural movements, noting their contributions to democratic traditions and social activism. He referenced the Gurdwara Guru Ka Bagh movement, a non-violent struggle where his grandfather played a key role, as an example of collective courage. Earlier, he paid respects at Gurdwara Guru Ka Bagh, seeking spiritual blessings.
University Leadership Echoes Founding Vision
GNDU Vice-Chancellor Karamjeet Singh linked the university's current achievements to Samundri's original vision, established in 1969. He recounted how Samundri acquired land, mobilized resources, and recruited merit-based faculty with a societal service ethos. "The presence of Taranjit Singh Sandhu feels like the return of the university's founding spirit," Singh stated, affirming the enduring impact of that legacy. The event also saw attendance from fellow alumnus and former Ambassador Navdeep Singh Suri.
