Hyderabad: Osmania University graduates were urged on Tuesday to continuously upgrade their skills, embrace artificial intelligence and become innovators and entrepreneurs rather than remain job-seekers.
Telangana Governor and University Chancellor Shiv Pratap Shukla made the appeal while addressing the 85th convocation at Tagore Auditorium. Shukla also stressed responsible use of emerging technology. He said technological progress should not come at the expense of human values.
“Artificial Intelligence (AI) can provide information, but the final decision must be taken by human beings based on understanding, ethical values, sensitivity and compassion,” he said. Bharat Biotech co-founder and Executive Chairman Dr. Krishna Ella attended the convocation as chief guest.
Osmania University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kumar Molugaram and Joint Secretary to the Governor K. Shahi Kiranachary also attended. Faculty members, research scholars, graduates and parents participated in the programme.
Osmania University graduates asked to link knowledge with purpose
Shukla described young people as the driving force behind India’s development. He asked students to connect knowledge with purpose and success with social service. Moreover, he urged them to contribute towards India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The Governor recalled that Osmania University was established in 1917. He said the institution had contributed significantly to education, research and nation-building during its 109-year legacy.
Shukla cited the university’s NAAC A+ accreditation, national rankings, expansion of research and institutional collaborations as indicators of its progress. However, he said excellence remained a continuous process.
The Governor called for greater emphasis on artificial intelligence, machine learning, research, innovation and sustainable development. He also sought wider access to digital learning for economically disadvantaged students. In addition, he encouraged research aimed at addressing social challenges.
Shukla advised graduates to remain humble and connected to their roots while pursuing professional success. “Dream big, but stay connected to your roots. Embrace technology, but never give up humanity,” he said.
The Governor also called on students to stay away from drugs. He urged young people to transform the “No to Drugs – Yes to Life” pledge into a broader social movement.
Shukla said Lok Bhavan had provided Rs. 40.25 lakh in financial assistance to ‘Sahyam’, a mental counselling and welfare centre. Meanwhile, Krishna Ella asked students to remember the sacrifices their parents had made to support their education.
He advised graduates to continuously improve their skills and pursue their interests with passion. He also encouraged them to focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
Osmania University graduates warned over social media use
Ella cautioned students against excessive use of social media. He said social media was increasingly diverting young people from their goals. Therefore, he advised graduates to use such platforms with discretion.
Vice-Chancellor Kumar Molugaram presented the university’s progress report during the convocation. Later, the Chancellor, chief guest and Vice-Chancellor conferred Ph.D. degrees on research scholars. They also presented gold medals to students for their academic achievements.