President Droupadi Murmu to Attend Nalanda University's Historic Convocation in Bihar
President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to arrive in Bihar on March 31 to preside over the second convocation ceremony of Nalanda University. The event will take place at the university's permanent campus in Rajgir, representing a significant moment for the revived institution. As the Visitor of the university, Murmu will serve as the chief guest, an official confirmed on Friday.
A Landmark Event at the Permanent Campus
This convocation marks a historic milestone for Nalanda University, as it will be the first such ceremony held at its permanent campus since its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2024. The upcoming event is only the second convocation since the university's revival, with the first one conducted in 2016. The ceremony is expected to draw participation from students, families, and dignitaries worldwide, highlighting its global significance.
Distinguished Attendees and Presidential Role
The ceremony will be attended by several high-profile figures, including Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Periasamy Kumaran, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs. President Murmu's visit to Rajgir will be her first to Nalanda University as the President of India. During the event, she will deliver the convocation address, confer degrees, and personally award gold medals to outstanding students.
New Infrastructure and International Participation
In addition to the convocation activities, President Murmu will inaugurate the university's newly constructed 2,000-seater auditorium, named "Vishwamitralaya." The ceremony will see graduands from postgraduate and doctoral programmes receiving their degrees in person. These students represent a diverse array of countries, including Vietnam, Bhutan, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Myanmar, Serbia, Ghana, Thailand, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe. A total of 10 PhD degrees and 36 gold medals will be awarded during the event.
Launch of Alumni Magazine and Research Centre
The convocation will also feature the launch of "Manjiri," a special alumni magazine curated, designed, and developed by current students of Nalanda University. This publication documents the journeys, experiences, and achievements of alumni since the university's pioneer batch. Furthermore, the Centre for Southeast Asian Studies will be formally launched. Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, this centre aims to enhance research, academic collaboration, and cultural exchange between India and ASEAN member states.
Significance of the Convocation
Held after a gap of nine years, this convocation underscores Nalanda University's growing prominence in global education. The event not only celebrates academic achievements but also reinforces India's commitment to fostering international partnerships and educational excellence. With President Murmu's involvement, the ceremony is poised to be a memorable occasion that highlights the university's revival and its future aspirations.
