Allahabad University Celebrates Alumni with Grand 'Familiar Faces Fiesta'
Prayagraj witnessed a momentous gathering as Allahabad University hosted the 'Familiar Faces Fiesta' alumni meet on Saturday. This significant event brought together hundreds of distinguished former students from across India and abroad, fostering reconnections and celebrating the university's legacy.
Prestigious Inauguration and Dignitaries
The programme was formally inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Allahabad University Alumni Association (AUAA), Prof Sangita Srivastava, alongside other university officials. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Supreme Court Judges Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Vineet Saran, along with noted alumna Deepali Pant Joshi and several other eminent alumni, adding prestige to the occasion.
VC's Vision and University Achievements
In her address to the gathering, Prof Srivastava described alumni as the 'young companions of the past,' emphasizing that the university family extends globally like the deep roots of its iconic banyan tree emblem. She highlighted major academic and infrastructural developments undertaken in recent years, including:
- Recruitment of nearly 400 teachers from 15 countries
- Implementation of the National Education Policy
- Introduction of over 190 skill-oriented courses
- Construction of 15 new buildings with upgraded sports facilities
Prof Srivastava proudly announced that the university secured NAAC A+ accreditation for the first time, marking a significant milestone. She urged alumni to contribute through knowledge, resources, and service, appealing for their continued engagement with the institution to support future growth.
Alumni Association's Progress and Objectives
Earlier in the programme, Prof Heramb Chaturvedi outlined the objectives of the alumni association, crediting the vice-chancellor for strengthening alumni engagement. Secretary Prof Kumar Birendra reported that within just two years of its registration, the association has successfully united alumni and facilitated valuable resource support for the university, demonstrating rapid progress and impact.
Cultural and Artistic Highlights
The event featured diverse cultural and artistic elements that enriched the experience:
- A poetry collection by Prof Jaya Kapoor was released during the programme
- Results of the alumni garden competition were announced
- Prof Srivastava inaugurated an art exhibition and food gallery at Nirala Art Gallery, where alumni explored student artworks and enjoyed traditional Indian cuisines at various food stalls
- The inaugural session included a captivating Dastangoi presentation on the Rani of Jhansi by Pragya Sharma and Himanshu Bajpai, which received enthusiastic appreciation from the audience
Evening Cultural Programme
Later in the night, a cultural evening featuring a Kavi Sammelan was scheduled at Bargad Lawn in the Senate Campus. This literary gathering was set to be graced by Padma Shri awardee Ashok Chakradhar, Sunil Jogi, and renowned poet Wasim Barelvi, promising an engaging conclusion to the day's festivities.
The event was efficiently conducted by Public Relations Officer Prof Jaya Kapoor, with Vice-President Atul Singh proposing the vote of thanks, ensuring smooth coordination throughout the memorable alumni reunion.
