Karnatak University Dharwad Marks Historic 75th Convocation with Grand Ceremony
Karnatak University (KU) in Dharwad is set to host a landmark event—its 75th annual convocation ceremony—on Thursday at 11 AM at the Gandhi Bhavan on the university campus. This significant occasion will confer degrees upon candidates who have successfully completed various graduate, post-graduate, and PhD programs during the 2023-2024 academic year.
Convocation Details and Distinguished Guests
KU Vice-Chancellor Prof AM Khan announced on Tuesday that the convocation for the 2023-2024 academic year was delayed due to the absence of a regular vice-chancellor. The ceremony will be presided over by Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, with former ISRO chairman Prof AS Kiran Kumar delivering the convocation address. Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar will serve as the chief guest, adding to the event's prestige.
Comprehensive Breakdown of Awards and Degrees
Providing detailed insights, Prof Khan revealed that a total of 270 candidates will be honored with degrees and medals during the ceremony. This includes 113 students receiving gold medals, 57 awarded prizes, 78 granted scholarships, and 69 securing ranks. In the PhD category, 252 candidates will be conferred doctoral degrees, comprising 172 men and 80 women.
Further degree distributions are as follows:
- 4,129 postgraduate students from diverse disciplines will receive their degrees.
- 24,030 undergraduate students will be awarded their degrees.
- 69 students will obtain PG diploma certificates.
Prof Khan also noted that the university has historically conferred honorary doctorates on 104 eminent personalities, highlighting its legacy of academic excellence.
Financial Challenges and Future Initiatives
The vice-chancellor addressed the university's ongoing financial constraints, emphasizing efforts to enhance fund augmentation from internal sources. Currently, KU is awaiting Rs 136 crore, with the government having released Rs 67.5 crore so far. Despite these challenges, the institution remains committed to advancing its educational mission.
Strategic Integration of Artificial Intelligence
In a forward-looking move, Prof Khan announced plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) across all subjects in undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Teachers are currently undergoing AI training, and upon completion, AI will be integrated into the curriculum. The proposal includes earmarking 15 hours per year in three-year degree courses for AI education, aiming to modernize and enhance the learning experience.
The event was attended by key university officials, including Registrar Shankar Vanikyal and Evaluation Registrar Prof. Nijalingappa Mattihal, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this milestone convocation.
